CVE-2022-22687 in DiskStation Manager
Summary
by MITRE • 03/25/2022
Buffer copy without checking size of input ('Classic Buffer Overflow') vulnerability in Authentication functionality in Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM) before 6.2.3-25426-3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/27/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-22687 represents a classic buffer overflow flaw within the authentication subsystem of Synology DiskStation Manager software. This critical security weakness exists in DSM versions prior to 6.2.3-25426-3 and manifests as a buffer copy operation that fails to validate the size of incoming input data. The flaw specifically affects the authentication functionality, making it a prime target for remote exploitation by malicious actors who seek to compromise Synology storage devices.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the authentication process. When the system processes authentication requests, it attempts to copy user-provided data into fixed-size buffers without first verifying that the input data conforms to expected size limitations. This classic programming error creates a condition where attacker-controlled data can overflow the allocated buffer space, potentially overwriting adjacent memory locations and corrupting program execution flow. The vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a fundamental flaw in input sanitization practices.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses severe risks to organizations relying on Synology DSM for their storage infrastructure. Remote attackers can exploit this weakness to execute arbitrary code on affected systems, potentially gaining full administrative control over the storage device. The implications extend beyond simple unauthorized access, as compromised DSM systems can serve as footholds for broader network infiltration attacks. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078.004, which covers legitimate credentials usage through the exploitation of authentication mechanisms, and T1059.001, involving command and script injection via remote code execution capabilities.
The attack surface for this vulnerability encompasses any network-facing Synology DSM instance running affected versions, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where storage systems often serve as central data repositories. Organizations utilizing Synology devices for critical data storage, backup operations, or network services face significant exposure risks. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access or prior authentication to attempt exploitation, significantly increasing the attack vector accessibility. Security teams must consider this vulnerability as a potential entry point for advanced persistent threats that could leverage the compromised system for lateral movement and data exfiltration operations.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate patch deployment to DSM versions 6.2.3-25426-3 or later, which contain the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow condition. Network administrators should implement additional defensive measures including firewall rules to restrict access to DSM management interfaces, particularly from untrusted networks. Regular monitoring of system logs for unusual authentication patterns or failed login attempts can help detect exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and the application of modern secure coding practices, including the use of safe string handling functions and runtime buffer overflow detection mechanisms. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems specifically configured to identify exploitation attempts targeting known authentication vulnerabilities in storage systems.