CVE-2022-38341 in FME Server
Summary
by MITRE • 09/19/2022
Safe Software FME Server v2022.0.1.1 and below does not employ server-side validation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/22/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-38341 affects Safe Software FME Server versions 2022.0.1.1 and earlier, representing a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity of the application's input handling mechanisms. This issue stems from the absence of proper server-side validation processes that should occur when the system receives data from clients or external sources. The lack of such validation creates an environment where malicious actors can exploit the system by submitting crafted inputs that bypass normal security controls. This vulnerability resides within the fundamental architecture of the FME Server application, specifically in how it processes and validates incoming requests or data payloads, potentially allowing unauthorized access to system resources or data manipulation.
The technical nature of this flaw classifies it under CWE-863, which addresses "Incorrect Authorization" due to insufficient validation of input data on the server side. This vulnerability enables attackers to manipulate the system through various attack vectors including but not limited to command injection, data manipulation, or privilege escalation attempts. The absence of server-side validation means that all incoming data is processed without proper sanitization or verification of its legitimacy, creating multiple potential entry points for exploitation. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because FME Server is designed to handle complex data transformation and integration tasks, making it a valuable target for attackers seeking to compromise data processing pipelines or gain unauthorized access to sensitive information.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-38341 extends beyond simple data integrity concerns, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code on the server or access restricted system resources. This vulnerability can be exploited through various methods including but not limited to SQL injection, cross-site scripting, or buffer overflow attacks depending on how the system handles the unvalidated inputs. The attack surface is broad since FME Server typically processes diverse data formats and protocols, making it essential for organizations to consider all potential attack vectors. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers "Command and Scripting Interpreter" where attackers might leverage unvalidated inputs to execute malicious commands on the target system. Organizations utilizing this software may experience data breaches, system compromise, or disruption of critical data integration processes.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing comprehensive server-side validation mechanisms that sanitize and verify all incoming data before processing. Organizations should immediately upgrade to Safe Software FME Server version 2022.0.2.0 or later, which addresses this specific vulnerability through proper validation controls. Additionally, implementing network-level firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and monitoring solutions can provide additional layers of protection while waiting for official patches. Security teams should conduct thorough penetration testing and input validation reviews to identify any other potential weaknesses in data handling processes. The implementation of secure coding practices and regular security assessments should become standard procedures for maintaining the integrity of enterprise data integration platforms. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and input filtering mechanisms to protect against exploitation attempts targeting this vulnerability.