CVE-2023-20008 in TelePresence Collaboration Endpoint
Summary
by MITRE • 01/20/2023
A vulnerability in the CLI of Cisco TelePresence CE and RoomOS Software could allow an authenticated, local attacker to overwrite arbitrary files on the local system of an affected device. This vulnerability is due to improper access controls on files that are in the local file system. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by placing a symbolic link in a specific location on the local file system of an affected device. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to overwrite arbitrary files on the affected device.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/04/2023
This vulnerability resides within the command line interface of Cisco TelePresence CE and RoomOS software platforms, representing a critical access control flaw that undermines the security posture of video conferencing and collaboration devices. The issue stems from inadequate file system permissions and validation mechanisms that fail to properly restrict file operations, creating an avenue for authenticated local attackers to manipulate system files. The vulnerability specifically affects devices running Cisco TelePresence CE and RoomOS software versions where the command line interface lacks proper safeguards against malicious file operations. The flaw manifests when an attacker leverages symbolic link manipulation within designated system directories, bypassing normal file access controls that should prevent arbitrary file overwrites. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where these devices often serve as critical communication infrastructure components.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to first establish authentication access to the local system, typically through legitimate administrative credentials or compromised accounts. Once authenticated, the attacker must place a carefully crafted symbolic link in a specific location within the local file system where the CLI process will attempt to perform file operations. The vulnerability occurs because the CLI process does not properly validate file paths or enforce access controls when processing files in the affected directories. This behavior aligns with CWE-276, which describes improper file permissions and access control issues that allow unauthorized file operations. The attack vector specifically targets the lack of proper path validation and the absence of secure file handling practices within the CLI implementation, creating a privilege escalation scenario where local access translates into arbitrary file overwrite capabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file corruption or modification, potentially enabling attackers to compromise the entire device functionality and underlying system integrity. An attacker could overwrite critical system files, configuration data, or even executable components that would lead to device instability, complete system compromise, or denial of service conditions. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for persistent access and privilege escalation, as attackers might overwrite authentication files or system binaries to maintain long-term control over affected devices. In enterprise environments, this could result in significant disruption to communication services, data breaches through system compromise, or the potential for lateral movement within network infrastructure. The attack could be particularly damaging in healthcare, financial, or government sectors where these devices often handle sensitive communications and data.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate access control hardening and operational procedure improvements. Cisco has released software updates that address the improper access controls by implementing proper file validation and path resolution mechanisms within the CLI interface. Organizations should prioritize applying these patches and updates to all affected devices as soon as possible, while also implementing network segmentation to limit local access to these systems. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary CLI access where possible, implementing strict administrative access controls, and monitoring for suspicious file system activities. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.004 for command and scripting interpreter usage. Organizations should also consider implementing file integrity monitoring solutions and regular security assessments to detect and prevent similar access control flaws in other system components. Proper network access controls and least privilege principles should be enforced to minimize the potential impact of such local privilege escalation vulnerabilities.