CVE-2021-32008 in GateManager
Summary
by MITRE • 03/05/2022
This issue affects: Secomea GateManager Version 9.6.621421014 and all prior versions. Improper Limitation of a Pathname to restricted directory, allows logged in GateManager admin to delete system Files or Directories.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/09/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-32008 represents a critical path traversal flaw in Secomea GateManager version 9.6.621421014 and earlier releases. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and path sanitization within the administrative interface, creating a dangerous condition where authenticated administrators can manipulate file system operations beyond their intended scope. The vulnerability specifically manifests as an improper limitation of pathname to restricted directories, allowing attackers with administrative privileges to execute destructive operations against system files and directories.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of file path parameters within the GateManager administrative interface. When an administrator performs file deletion operations, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the input paths, enabling attackers to construct malicious paths that traverse outside the intended restricted directories. This weakness directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The flaw allows for arbitrary file deletion operations, potentially compromising the integrity and availability of critical system components.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file deletion capabilities, as it can lead to complete system compromise when combined with administrative access. An attacker with valid administrative credentials can leverage this vulnerability to remove essential system files, disrupt service availability, or potentially install malicious components that persist across system reboots. The implications are particularly severe in industrial control environments where GateManager serves as a critical network gateway, as the deletion of system files could result in complete system outages or compromise of industrial processes. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1070.004, which covers "File Deletion" through legitimate system tools, and T1566.001, which involves "Phishing" to gain initial administrative access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-32008 require immediate implementation of multiple defensive measures to protect against exploitation. Organizations should prioritize updating to the latest available version of Secomea GateManager that contains patches for this vulnerability, as vendor-provided updates typically include proper input validation and path sanitization mechanisms. Additionally, implementing strict access controls and principle of least privilege should be enforced, limiting administrative access to only authorized personnel and systems. Network segmentation and monitoring of administrative activities can help detect anomalous file deletion patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Security configurations should include mandatory input validation for all file system operations, proper path normalization, and the implementation of allow-listing mechanisms for file paths to prevent traversal attacks. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to verify that the implemented controls effectively prevent exploitation of similar path traversal vulnerabilities in other system components.