CVE-2022-31322 in WAPPLES
Summary
by MITRE • 09/14/2022
Penta Security Systems Inc WAPPLES v6.0 r3 4.10-hotfix1 allows attackers to escalate privileges via overwriting files using SUID flagged executables.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/17/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-31322 affects Penta Security Systems Inc WAPPLES version 6.0 r3 4.10-hotfix1, representing a critical privilege escalation flaw that leverages improperly configured setuid (SUID) executables to enable unauthorized system access. This vulnerability resides within the security framework of the WAPPLES system, which is designed to provide wireless access point management and security services for enterprise networks. The flaw manifests when attackers exploit the SUID bit on specific executables to overwrite critical system files, thereby gaining elevated privileges beyond their initial access level.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of file operations within the SUID executables that are part of the WAPPLES software suite. When these executables run with elevated privileges due to the SUID bit, they fail to properly validate or sanitize file paths and operations, allowing attackers to manipulate file system operations in ways that result in arbitrary file overwrites. This occurs because the executables do not implement proper access controls or file validation mechanisms that would normally prevent such operations from succeeding when performed by non-privileged users. The SUID mechanism, which is intended to provide temporary elevated privileges for specific operations, becomes a vector for privilege escalation when the underlying software fails to enforce proper security boundaries.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-31322 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it fundamentally undermines the security model of the affected system. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can gain root-level access to the system, enabling them to modify critical system files, install persistent backdoors, or exfiltrate sensitive data. This represents a severe compromise of the system's integrity and confidentiality, as the attacker can essentially bypass all normal access controls and security mechanisms. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows for persistent access without requiring additional attack vectors, making it an attractive target for both malicious actors and red teams conducting security assessments.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigations including disabling or removing the vulnerable SUID executables, implementing proper file access controls, and conducting thorough security audits of all system binaries. The remediation process should involve verifying the integrity of all SUID executables and ensuring that no unnecessary SUID bits are present on system files. Additionally, system administrators should implement proper file system monitoring and access logging to detect suspicious file operations that might indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper file permissions, and represents a classic example of privilege escalation through insecure file handling, a technique commonly catalogued in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the privilege escalation tactics. The attack vector demonstrates how insecure file operations can be exploited to bypass operating system security mechanisms, making it a significant concern for enterprise security posture and compliance requirements.