CVE-2023-33466 in Orthanc
Summary
by MITRE • 06/29/2023
Orthanc before 1.12.0 allows authenticated users with access to the Orthanc API to overwrite arbitrary files on the file system, and in specific deployment scenarios allows the attacker to overwrite the configuration, which can be exploited to trigger Remote Code Execution (RCE).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/27/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-33466 affects Orthanc versions prior to 1.12.0 and represents a critical file system manipulation flaw that enables authenticated users to perform arbitrary file overwrites through the Orthanc API. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and access control mechanisms within the application's file handling processes, creating a path for privilege escalation and potential system compromise. The flaw specifically manifests when authenticated users leverage legitimate API access to manipulate file system operations, bypassing normal security boundaries that should prevent unauthorized file modifications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the exploitation of improper validation of file paths and names within Orthanc's API endpoints. When authenticated users submit requests containing malicious file paths or names, the system fails to properly sanitize these inputs, allowing attackers to traverse file system directories and overwrite existing files. This weakness aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal vulnerabilities. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that attackers can potentially overwrite critical system files, including configuration files that control Orthanc's operational parameters and security settings.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-33466 extends beyond simple file overwrite capabilities to encompass potential remote code execution scenarios. In specific deployment configurations where the Orthanc server has elevated privileges or where configuration files are stored in writable locations, attackers can leverage this vulnerability to modify system settings, inject malicious code, or alter the application's behavior to execute arbitrary commands. This represents a significant escalation from a simple file system manipulation to a full system compromise, particularly when the Orthanc service operates with administrative privileges or when configuration files contain executable components. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including API calls, web interface interactions, or any legitimate authenticated access point to the Orthanc system.
Organizations utilizing Orthanc versions prior to 1.12.0 face substantial risk from this vulnerability, as it provides attackers with a pathway to system compromise that can be leveraged for data exfiltration, service disruption, or establishment of persistent access. The vulnerability's exploitation requires only authenticated access, making it particularly dangerous in environments where API credentials are compromised or where users have unnecessary elevated privileges. Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching to version 1.12.0 or later, which includes proper input validation and access control mechanisms. Additional protective measures include implementing network segmentation, restricting API access through firewalls, enforcing least privilege principles for API users, and monitoring for suspicious file system activities. Security professionals should also consider implementing the principle of least privilege for Orthanc services and ensuring that configuration files are stored in protected locations with appropriate access controls. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper access control in preventing authenticated privilege escalation attacks, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1078 for valid accounts and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter to understand the full attack surface and potential exploitation paths.