CVE-2022-41335 in FortiOS
Summary
by MITRE • 02/16/2023
A relative path traversal vulnerability [CWE-23] in Fortinet FortiOS version 7.2.0 through 7.2.2, 7.0.0 through 7.0.8 and before 6.4.10, FortiProxy version 7.2.0 through 7.2.1, 7.0.0 through 7.0.7 and before 2.0.10, FortiSwitchManager 7.2.0 and before 7.0.0 allows an authenticated attacker to read and write files on the underlying Linux system via crafted HTTP requests.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/16/2023
The vulnerability CVE-2022-41335 represents a critical relative path traversal flaw in Fortinet's FortiOS operating system and related products, specifically affecting versions ranging from 7.2.0 through 7.2.2, 7.0.0 through 7.0.8, and prior to 6.4.10 for FortiOS, along with corresponding FortiProxy and FortiSwitchManager versions. This vulnerability falls under CWE-23, which categorizes path traversal attacks that allow attackers to access files and directories outside the intended scope by manipulating file path references. The flaw exists within the web interface handling of HTTP requests, where proper input validation and path sanitization mechanisms are insufficient to prevent malicious path manipulation attempts.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability enables authenticated attackers to exploit the system by crafting specially formatted HTTP requests that manipulate the file path resolution mechanism. When the system processes these requests, it fails to properly validate or sanitize the input paths, allowing an attacker to traverse the file system hierarchy and access sensitive files or directories that should be restricted. The attack vector specifically targets the underlying Linux system files, potentially enabling both read and write operations that could lead to complete system compromise.
Operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it provides attackers with the ability to modify system files and potentially escalate privileges within the Fortinet appliance environment. The authenticated nature of the attack means that an attacker must first establish valid credentials, but once achieved, they can leverage this vulnerability to gain deeper system access and potentially move laterally within the network infrastructure. This vulnerability directly impacts the security posture of organizations relying on Fortinet products, as it could enable attackers to access configuration files, system logs, and potentially sensitive data stored on the appliance.
The vulnerability's presence in multiple Fortinet product lines including FortiOS, FortiProxy, and FortiSwitchManager creates widespread risk across enterprise network security infrastructure, as these products often serve as critical components in network perimeter protection and traffic management. Organizations using affected versions should consider the implications of this vulnerability in relation to their network segmentation strategies and the potential for attackers to access system-level resources that could compromise the integrity of their entire security infrastructure.
Recommended mitigations include immediate deployment of Fortinet's security patches and updates for all affected versions, implementing network segmentation to limit access to administrative interfaces, and conducting thorough security assessments of affected systems. Organizations should also review their access control policies and ensure that administrative interfaces are not directly exposed to untrusted networks. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and path sanitization in web application security, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for path traversal attacks and emphasizing the need for robust security controls at multiple layers of the network infrastructure.