CVE-2022-22005 in SharePoint Server
Summary
by MITRE • 02/09/2022
Microsoft SharePoint Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/12/2022
Microsoft SharePoint Server contains a remote code execution vulnerability that arises from improper validation of user-supplied input within the web application framework. This flaw exists in the way SharePoint processes certain HTTP requests and handles specific parameter values, allowing an unauthenticated attacker to execute arbitrary code on the target system. The vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization of input parameters that are directly used in server-side processing operations, creating a path for malicious payload injection. According to CWE-20, this represents a classic input validation weakness where the application fails to properly filter or escape user-provided data before using it in executable contexts.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft specially formatted HTTP requests that manipulate the SharePoint server's internal processing logic. When the server receives these malformed requests, it inadvertently executes the injected code within the context of the SharePoint application pool. The attack vector typically involves manipulating URL parameters, form fields, or HTTP headers that are not adequately validated before being processed by the server-side components. This vulnerability affects multiple versions of Microsoft SharePoint Server including SharePoint Server 2019, SharePoint Server 2016, and SharePoint Server 2013, with the severity amplified by the fact that no authentication is required for exploitation. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a remote code execution technique under the T1059.007 sub-technique, specifically targeting server-side application vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive data. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and move laterally within the network infrastructure. The affected SharePoint servers may experience service disruption, data exfiltration, and potential establishment of backdoor access points. Organizations running SharePoint Server environments face significant risk of data breaches and regulatory compliance violations, particularly in sectors with strict data protection requirements such as healthcare, finance, and government. The vulnerability's exploitation can result in widespread compromise across enterprise networks, as SharePoint servers often serve as central collaboration platforms with extensive user access and integration with other enterprise systems.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate deployment of Microsoft security patches and updates released through the Microsoft Security Response Center. Organizations must implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of SharePoint servers to untrusted networks. Input validation controls and web application firewalls should be configured to detect and block malicious requests targeting known vulnerability patterns. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual HTTP request patterns and anomalous behavior in SharePoint server logs. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify additional exposure points within SharePoint environments. The implementation of principle of least privilege access controls and regular security audits can help reduce the potential impact of successful exploitation. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management systems to ensure timely deployment of security updates across all SharePoint server instances.