CVE-2022-44693 in SharePoint Server
Summary
by MITRE • 12/13/2022
Microsoft SharePoint Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability. This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2022-44690.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/08/2023
Microsoft SharePoint Server contains a remote code execution vulnerability that arises from improper validation of user-supplied input within the web application framework. This flaw exists in the way SharePoint processes certain HTTP requests and handles specific parameters that can be manipulated by unauthenticated attackers. The vulnerability stems from a lack of adequate sanitization mechanisms that should validate and filter incoming data before it is processed by the server-side components. When exploited, this weakness allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system with the privileges of the SharePoint application pool account. The technical implementation involves manipulation of URL parameters or request headers that are not properly validated, enabling attackers to inject malicious payloads that bypass normal security controls. This represents a critical security gap in the input handling mechanisms that aligns with CWE-20, which describes improper input validation as a fundamental weakness in software security design. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of Microsoft SharePoint Server including 2016, 2019, and 2021, with the specific exploitation techniques varying based on the target version and configuration. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and potentially move laterally within the network infrastructure. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution as it can lead to complete system compromise and data exfiltration. From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to organizations that rely on SharePoint for document management, collaboration, and enterprise content services. The attack surface is broad due to SharePoint's widespread deployment across enterprise environments and its integration with various Microsoft products and services. The exploitation process typically involves crafting malicious requests that trigger the vulnerable code path, often through carefully constructed URLs or API calls that bypass standard authentication mechanisms. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and the potential for remote code execution when such controls are inadequate. Security researchers have identified that the flaw can be exploited without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous in environments where SharePoint servers are exposed to untrusted networks. The remediation approach requires immediate patch application from Microsoft, along with network segmentation and monitoring of suspicious traffic patterns. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls and additional layers of security controls to mitigate potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1059 for command and script interpreter and T1071 for application layer protocol, highlighting the multi-faceted nature of the threat. The risk assessment indicates that organizations with exposed SharePoint servers face high probability of exploitation, particularly in environments with insufficient network controls and monitoring capabilities. Microsoft has addressed this vulnerability through security updates that enhance input validation and improve the sanitization of user-supplied data. The patch implementation requires careful testing to ensure compatibility with existing SharePoint configurations and customizations. Organizations should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify any potential exploitation attempts and implement comprehensive incident response procedures. The vulnerability underscores the necessity of maintaining up-to-date security patches and following secure coding practices that prevent similar issues from occurring in the future. Additional defensive measures include implementing strict access controls, regular security audits, and continuous monitoring of SharePoint server activities for anomalous behavior patterns.