CVE-2022-29805 in Fishbowl Inventory
Summary
by MITRE • 08/19/2022
A Java Deserialization vulnerability in the Fishbowl Server in Fishbowl Inventory before 2022.4.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted XML payload.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/18/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-29805 represents a critical Java deserialization flaw within the Fishbowl Server component of Fishbowl Inventory software. This issue affects versions prior to 2022.4.1 and creates a significant attack surface that enables remote code execution through carefully crafted XML payloads. The vulnerability stems from the improper handling of serialized Java objects during XML processing, which allows malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary code on the target system. Such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous because they can be exploited without authentication and can lead to complete system compromise.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-502, which describes the weakness of deserializing untrusted data in Java applications. When the Fishbowl Server processes XML input containing serialized Java objects, it fails to properly validate or sanitize the incoming data before deserializing it. This deserialization process occurs within the application's memory space, allowing attackers to craft malicious XML payloads that, when processed, trigger the execution of arbitrary code. The vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution (RCE) flaw, which means an attacker can exploit it from outside the network perimeter without requiring local system access or credentials.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-29805 is severe and multifaceted. Successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise, data exfiltration, lateral movement within the network, and potential persistence mechanisms. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive business data, including inventory records, financial information, and customer data. The remote nature of the attack means that organizations may be unaware of the compromise until significant damage has occurred. This vulnerability can be particularly devastating for inventory management systems that often contain critical business information and may serve as a stepping stone for more extensive attacks within enterprise environments.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including updating to Fishbowl Inventory version 2022.4.1 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the deserialization vulnerability. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to the Fishbowl Server ports, limiting exposure to unauthorized users. Input validation and sanitization measures should be strengthened to prevent the processing of untrusted XML content. Additionally, implementing application-level firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help identify and block suspicious XML payloads. The mitigation strategy should also include monitoring for unusual network activity and implementing proper logging to detect potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability is categorized under the MITRE ATT&CK framework as part of the T1059.007 technique for command and scripting interpreter, specifically targeting Java deserialization vulnerabilities. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and systems within the organization's infrastructure.