CVE-2022-34002 in Vista
Summary
by MITRE • 09/16/2022
The ‘document’ parameter of PDS Vista 7’s /application/documents/display.aspx page is vulnerable to a Local File Inclusion vulnerability which allows an low-privileged authenticated attacker to leak the configuration files and source code of the web application.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/18/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-34002 affects PDS Vista 7's document display functionality, specifically targeting the 'document' parameter within the /application/documents/display.aspx page. This represents a critical security flaw that undermines the application's input validation mechanisms and exposes sensitive system information through improper parameter handling. The vulnerability resides in the web application's file inclusion logic, where user-supplied input is directly processed without adequate sanitization or authorization checks. Attackers can exploit this weakness by manipulating the document parameter to traverse the file system and access files outside the intended directory structure. The flaw enables unauthorized access to configuration files and source code, potentially revealing sensitive information such as database credentials, application logic, and system architecture details that could be leveraged for further exploitation.
This vulnerability manifests as a Local File Inclusion (LFI) issue, which aligns with CWE-98 classification for improper file name handling. The attack vector operates through authenticated access, meaning that adversaries must first establish legitimate user credentials to exploit the flaw, though the privilege level required is described as low-privileged. The operational impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the exposure of source code and configuration files provides attackers with detailed insights into the application's internal workings. This intelligence can facilitate more sophisticated attacks including code injection, privilege escalation, and targeted exploitation of other system vulnerabilities. The LFI vulnerability specifically allows for arbitrary file reading capabilities, potentially enabling attackers to access system files, application logs, and sensitive configuration data that should remain protected from unauthorized access.
The security implications of CVE-2022-34002 extend significantly within the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly relating to the credential access and defense evasion tactics. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability can potentially gain access to authentication-related configuration files, database connection strings, and other sensitive data that could be used to escalate privileges or move laterally within the network. The exposure of source code creates additional attack surface opportunities, as developers and security researchers can analyze the application's implementation to identify other potential weaknesses. The vulnerability also impacts the application's integrity and confidentiality, as unauthorized access to sensitive files violates fundamental security principles. Organizations using PDS Vista 7 must consider the broader implications of this flaw on their overall security posture, including potential compliance violations and increased risk of additional compromise through the information leaked.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-34002 should prioritize immediate input validation and parameter sanitization within the application's document handling logic. The most effective approach involves implementing strict input validation that rejects any attempts to traverse directory structures or access files outside the intended scope. Security measures should include whitelisting acceptable file names, implementing proper access controls for file operations, and employing secure coding practices that prevent user-supplied input from directly influencing file system operations. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious parameter values, as well as conducting thorough code reviews to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. Additionally, regular security assessments and penetration testing should be performed to ensure that the implemented mitigations remain effective against evolving attack techniques. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of proper input validation and access control mechanisms in preventing unauthorized file access and maintaining application security boundaries.