CVE-2023-50094 in reNgine
Summary
by MITRE • 01/01/2024
reNgine through 2.0.2 allows OS Command Injection if an adversary has a valid session ID. The attack places shell metacharacters in an api/tools/waf_detector/?url= string. The commands are executed as root via subprocess.check_output.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/14/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2023-50094 represents a critical operating system command injection flaw within the reNgine security testing framework version 2.0.2 and earlier. This vulnerability specifically targets the waf_detector API endpoint, where user-supplied input is inadequately sanitized before being processed by the system. The flaw exists in the parameter handling mechanism for the url parameter, allowing malicious actors to inject shell metacharacters that are subsequently executed with elevated privileges. The attack vector requires an adversary to possess a valid session ID, which provides them with authenticated access to the system's API endpoints. Once authenticated, the attacker can manipulate the api/tools/waf_detector/?url= string to include malicious command sequences that exploit the insufficient input validation in the underlying subprocess.check_output function. This function executes the injected commands with root privileges, creating a severe privilege escalation scenario that allows attackers to gain full system control. The vulnerability falls under CWE-77 and CWE-78 categories, specifically addressing command injection flaws that enable arbitrary code execution through improper input handling. The attack aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. The root cause stems from the application's failure to properly sanitize or escape user input before incorporating it into system commands, creating a direct path for command injection attacks. This vulnerability demonstrates a critical gap in the application's input validation mechanisms, particularly in the API layer where user-provided data is processed without adequate security controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass full system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. When an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they can execute arbitrary commands with root privileges, potentially allowing them to install backdoors, exfiltrate data, modify system configurations, or establish persistent access to the compromised system. The fact that commands are executed via subprocess.check_output means that the attacker's input is directly interpreted by the shell, bypassing any application-level security controls that might otherwise prevent malicious execution. The requirement for a valid session ID adds a layer of authentication bypass complexity, as adversaries must first obtain legitimate credentials or session tokens to exploit this vulnerability effectively. This makes the attack more sophisticated but also more dangerous since it can be used by insiders or compromised users to escalate their privileges. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of reNgine's web application firewall detection capabilities, potentially allowing attackers to bypass security controls while simultaneously compromising the underlying infrastructure. The execution of commands as root creates a significant risk for data integrity and confidentiality, as attackers can manipulate system files, access sensitive information, or disable security mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-50094 must address both the immediate input validation issues and the broader security architecture concerns. The most effective immediate fix involves implementing proper input sanitization and parameter validation for all user-supplied data, particularly within API endpoints that process external input. Applications should employ proper escaping or encoding mechanisms to prevent shell metacharacters from being interpreted as commands. The use of secure coding practices such as parameterized queries and input validation libraries can significantly reduce the risk of command injection. Organizations should implement strict session management controls with session expiration policies and monitoring for suspicious activity. Network segmentation and access controls should limit the impact of potential compromises by restricting access to critical system functions. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application. The implementation of web application firewalls and runtime application self-protection mechanisms can provide additional layers of defense against command injection attacks. Security updates and patches should be applied immediately upon release, and organizations should maintain comprehensive vulnerability management programs to prevent similar issues in other applications. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding guidelines and implementing defense-in-depth strategies that protect against various attack vectors including command injection, privilege escalation, and unauthorized access. Organizations should also consider implementing automated security scanning tools that can detect such vulnerabilities during the development lifecycle rather than after deployment.