CVE-2023-40460 in ALEOS
Summary
by MITRE • 12/05/2023
The ACEManager component of ALEOS 4.16 and earlier does not validate uploaded file names and types, which could potentially allow an authenticated user to perform client-side script execution within ACEManager, altering the device functionality until the device is restarted.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/23/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-40460 affects the ACEManager component within ALEOS 4.16 and earlier versions, representing a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity of the affected system. This issue stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the file upload functionality, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system through authenticated user sessions. The vulnerability specifically targets the validation processes that should govern uploaded file names and types, allowing adversaries to bypass these security controls and potentially execute arbitrary client-side scripts within the ACEManager environment.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the lack of proper sanitization and validation procedures for file uploads within the ACEManager component. When an authenticated user attempts to upload files, the system fails to adequately verify the file extensions, MIME types, or content characteristics before processing the uploads. This absence of validation creates an environment where malicious files can be uploaded without proper scrutiny, potentially including scripts or executable content that can be interpreted by the browser or application environment. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and directly impacts the client-side execution context, making it particularly dangerous as it can alter the device functionality in real-time.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it fundamentally compromises the device's security posture and operational integrity. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can manipulate the ACEManager component to alter device functionality, potentially leading to complete system compromise or unauthorized access to sensitive operational data. The persistence of this vulnerability until device restart indicates that the malicious modifications can remain active and functional across system reboots, creating a persistent threat that requires complete system reset to eliminate. This vulnerability directly relates to CWE-434 which addresses insecure file upload handling, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1505.003 for Unsecured Credentials and T1203 for Exploitation for Client Execution.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-40460 should prioritize immediate implementation of proper file validation mechanisms within the ACEManager component. Organizations must implement strict file type validation that rejects uploads of potentially dangerous file extensions and content types, while also establishing comprehensive content scanning procedures to detect malicious payloads. The system should enforce strict filename sanitization and validation rules that prevent directory traversal attacks and ensure all uploaded files conform to predefined security parameters. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts, while regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities within the broader system architecture. The remediation process must include updating to ALEOS versions that address this specific validation flaw, as well as implementing robust monitoring and alerting mechanisms to detect unauthorized file upload activities.