CVE-2021-36356 in VIAware
Summary
by MITRE • 08/31/2021
KRAMER VIAware through August 2021 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code because ajaxPages/writeBrowseFilePathAjax.php accepts arbitrary executable pathnames (even though browseSystemFiles.php is no longer reachable via the GUI). NOTE: this issue exists because of an incomplete fix for CVE-2019-17124.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/07/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2021-36356 affects KRAMER VIAware software version through August 2021, representing a critical remote code execution flaw that enables attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This vulnerability stems from an incomplete remediation of a previous security issue, specifically CVE-2019-17124, which demonstrates the importance of thorough vulnerability patching and validation processes. The flaw exists within the ajaxPages/writeBrowseFilePathAjax.php component of the software, which improperly handles user-supplied pathnames that can include executable file paths. This represents a classic path traversal vulnerability that allows attackers to manipulate file system access patterns and potentially execute malicious code with the privileges of the affected application.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the ajaxPages/writeBrowseFilePathAjax.php file accepting arbitrary executable pathnames, which creates an attack surface where remote adversaries can submit malicious file paths through web requests. Even though the browseSystemFiles.php component is no longer directly accessible through the graphical user interface, the underlying flaw persists in the AJAX endpoint, allowing attackers to bypass the GUI restrictions and directly exploit the vulnerable code path. This design flaw aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal vulnerabilities, specifically CWE-23 Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize file path inputs before processing them. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through HTTP requests without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous for network-connected systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides remote attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on affected systems, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or lateral movement within networks. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, modify system files, or establish persistent access to the affected infrastructure. The vulnerability affects organizations using KRAMER VIAware software in industrial control systems, building automation environments, or any networked infrastructure where such systems are deployed. Given that the software is designed for critical infrastructure applications, successful exploitation could result in operational technology disruptions, safety hazards, or security breaches that impact business continuity. The vulnerability also represents a significant concern from an ATT&CK framework perspective, particularly mapping to T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1078 Valid Accounts, as it enables attackers to execute code remotely and potentially establish persistent access.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigations including applying the vendor-provided patches, implementing network segmentation to limit access to affected systems, and monitoring network traffic for suspicious file path requests. The incomplete fix for CVE-2019-17124 highlights the need for comprehensive security testing and validation of patches before deployment, as well as regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar issues in legacy systems. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls, input validation controls, and restricting access to sensitive AJAX endpoints can help reduce the attack surface and prevent exploitation attempts. Security teams should also consider implementing monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous file path patterns and unusual system access attempts that may indicate exploitation attempts against this vulnerability. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and conducting thorough validation of security fixes to prevent similar issues from persisting in software environments.