CVE-2021-37445 in Quorum
Summary
by MITRE • 07/26/2021
In NCH Quorum v2.03 and earlier, an authenticated user can use directory traversal via logprop?file=/.. for file reading.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/28/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-37445 affects NCH Quorum version 2.03 and earlier, representing a critical directory traversal flaw that allows authenticated users to access arbitrary files on the system. This vulnerability exists within the logprop functionality of the application where the file parameter is processed without proper input validation or sanitization. The specific exploitation mechanism involves appending directory traversal sequences such as /.. to the file parameter in the logprop endpoint, enabling attackers to navigate beyond the intended directory boundaries and read files that should remain restricted.
This directory traversal vulnerability falls under CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The flaw represents a fundamental failure in input validation and access control mechanisms within the application's file handling routines. The authenticated nature of this vulnerability means that an attacker must first establish a valid account within the system, but once authenticated, they can leverage this weakness to access sensitive information that may include configuration files, log files, or other system resources that contain potentially sensitive data.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-37445 extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it can potentially lead to information disclosure, system compromise, and further escalation attacks. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to read system configuration files, application logs, or other sensitive data that may contain credentials, system information, or business logic that could be used for additional attacks. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083, which covers the discovery of system information through directory traversal and file enumeration activities. This weakness could enable attackers to gather intelligence about the system's configuration, file structure, and potentially identify other vulnerabilities within the application or underlying infrastructure.
Organizations using affected versions of NCH Quorum should prioritize immediate remediation through official vendor patches or updates that address the directory traversal vulnerability. The mitigation strategy should include implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all file path parameters, implementing strict access controls, and employing proper file handling mechanisms that prevent directory traversal attacks. Additionally, security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and implementing defense-in-depth strategies to protect against common web application vulnerabilities that can be exploited by authenticated users to gain unauthorized access to system resources and sensitive data.