CVE-2020-3143 in TelePresence Collaboration Endpoint
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability in the video endpoint API (xAPI) of Cisco TelePresence Collaboration Endpoint (CE) Software, Cisco TelePresence Codec (TC) Software, and Cisco RoomOS Software could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to conduct directory traversal attacks on an affected device. The vulnerability is due to insufficient validation of user-supplied input to the xAPI of the affected software. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending a crafted request to the xAPI. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to read and write arbitrary files in the system. To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker would need either an In-Room Control or administrator account.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/23/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-3143 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the xAPI interface of Cisco's collaboration endpoint software ecosystem. This encompasses Cisco TelePresence Collaboration Endpoint software, Cisco TelePresence Codec software, and Cisco RoomOS software, all of which are widely deployed in enterprise communication environments. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the xAPI implementation, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate file system access controls through carefully crafted API requests. The vulnerability specifically affects the video endpoint API's handling of user-supplied data, where insufficient sanitization allows attackers to traverse directory structures beyond intended boundaries. This weakness directly maps to CWE-22, which classifies directory traversal vulnerabilities as a fundamental security flaw that enables unauthorized access to restricted system resources. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the vulnerability permits both read and write operations on arbitrary files within the affected system's file structure.
Attackers exploiting this vulnerability require authentication credentials to either an In-Room Control account or administrator-level access, establishing a baseline for privilege requirements that aligns with the principle of least privilege violations. The authenticated nature of the attack vector suggests that the vulnerability could be leveraged through compromised credentials or insider threats, making it particularly concerning in environments where administrative access is not adequately controlled. The xAPI interface serves as a critical communication channel for managing device configurations, media processing, and system operations, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking persistent access or system compromise. When exploited, the vulnerability enables attackers to access sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially execute arbitrary code within the device's operating environment. This capability provides attackers with extensive opportunities for lateral movement within networks, data exfiltration, or establishment of persistent backdoors. The exploitation process involves sending malicious requests through the xAPI that manipulate file path parameters, allowing attackers to bypass normal access controls and gain unauthorized system-level privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-3143 extends beyond immediate system compromise to potentially disrupt business continuity and compromise sensitive communication infrastructure. Organizations utilizing Cisco collaboration endpoints face risks including unauthorized access to meeting recordings, device configuration files, and potentially sensitive corporate data stored within the system's file structure. The vulnerability's presence in multiple software variants indicates widespread exposure across Cisco's collaboration product line, affecting deployments ranging from small conference rooms to enterprise-wide communication systems. Network segmentation and access controls may be bypassed through this vulnerability, allowing attackers to escalate privileges and gain deeper access to network resources. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that many of these endpoints are deployed in physically accessible locations where unauthorized individuals might obtain legitimate credentials through social engineering or credential theft attacks. Security professionals should consider this vulnerability as part of broader attack chains that could lead to complete system compromise, especially when combined with other vulnerabilities or attack vectors within the same network infrastructure. The potential for this vulnerability to facilitate persistence mechanisms makes it particularly dangerous in long-term attack scenarios where attackers seek extended access to target environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-3143 should prioritize immediate software updates from Cisco to address the directory traversal vulnerability within the xAPI implementation. Organizations must implement strict access controls and credential management practices, ensuring that administrative privileges are tightly controlled and regularly audited. Network segmentation should be enforced to limit the attack surface available to authenticated users, particularly in environments where physical access to devices is possible. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual API access patterns and directory traversal attempts within xAPI communications. The implementation of network-based intrusion detection systems capable of identifying malicious xAPI requests can provide early warning of exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments should verify that all affected devices have been updated and that proper access controls remain in place. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing privileged access management solutions to control and monitor access to administrative accounts. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-22 and potential mapping to ATT&CK techniques such as T1059.001 (Command and Scripting Interpreter) and T1566 (Phishing) emphasizes the need for comprehensive security controls that address both technical and operational aspects of the threat landscape. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify and remediate similar input validation weaknesses across the organization's technology infrastructure.