CVE-2023-2913 in ThinManager ThinServer
Summary
by MITRE • 07/18/2023
An executable used in Rockwell Automation ThinManager ThinServer can be configured to enable an API feature in the HTTPS Server Settings. This feature is disabled by default. When the API is enabled and handling requests, a path traversal vulnerability exists that allows a remote actor to leverage the privileges of the server’s file system and read arbitrary files stored in it. A malicious user could exploit this vulnerability by executing a path that contains manipulating variables.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/09/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-2913 affects Rockwell Automation ThinManager ThinServer software, specifically targeting the HTTPS server configuration where an Application Programming Interface feature can be enabled. This API functionality represents a potential attack surface that becomes exploitable when configured incorrectly. The vulnerability manifests as a path traversal flaw within the server's file system handling mechanisms, creating a scenario where remote attackers can manipulate file access paths to gain unauthorized access to system resources. The default security posture of the software disables this API feature, which serves as a crucial defense-in-depth measure that must be carefully considered during deployment and configuration phases.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the manipulation of file path variables within the API request handling process. When the API feature is enabled, the ThinServer processes incoming requests through an HTTPS interface that lacks proper input validation for file system path parameters. This weakness allows attackers to craft malicious requests containing directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ that bypass normal file access controls. The vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization of user-supplied input before it is processed by the server's file system functions, creating a direct path to arbitrary file reading capabilities. The flaw operates at the application layer and requires minimal privileges to exploit, as the API service typically runs with the permissions of the server process itself.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it enables attackers to access sensitive data stored on the server system. Remote threat actors can leverage this weakness to read configuration files, log files, system binaries, and potentially sensitive operational data that should remain protected. The attack vector requires network access to the ThinServer's HTTPS port and knowledge of the target system's file structure, making it particularly dangerous in industrial control environments where ThinManager is commonly deployed. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, as attackers may discover additional security weaknesses, credentials, or system information that can be used for further lateral movement within the network infrastructure. This type of vulnerability directly impacts the confidentiality and integrity aspects of the CIA triad.
Security mitigations for CVE-2023-2913 should focus on disabling the API feature in the HTTPS server settings when it is not required for operations, as this represents the most effective immediate solution. Organizations should implement strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied data, particularly when processing file system paths. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by running the ThinServer service with minimal required permissions and by implementing proper access controls for the file system. Network segmentation and firewall rules should restrict access to the ThinServer's HTTPS port to only trusted sources, while regular security assessments should be conducted to identify any unauthorized configuration changes. Additionally, monitoring for unusual file access patterns and API request behaviors can help detect exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-74 Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in Output Used by a Downstream Component, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter for potential post-exploitation activities.