CVE-2024-24809 in Traccar
Summary
by MITRE • 04/10/2024
Traccar is an open source GPS tracking system. Versions prior to 6.0 are vulnerable to path traversal and unrestricted upload of file with dangerous type. Since the system allows registration by default, attackers can acquire ordinary user permissions by registering an account and exploit this vulnerability to upload files with the prefix `device.` under any folder. Attackers can use this vulnerability for phishing, cross-site scripting attacks, and potentially execute arbitrary commands on the server. Version 6.0 contains a patch for the issue.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/24/2024
The Traccar GPS tracking system presents a critical security vulnerability in versions prior to 60 that combines path traversal and unrestricted file upload flaws, creating a severe attack surface for malicious actors. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and insufficient access controls within the file upload functionality, allowing unauthorized users to manipulate file paths and upload malicious content with dangerous file extensions. The system's default configuration enabling public registration exacerbates the risk by providing attackers with easy entry points to acquire legitimate user credentials and exploit the vulnerability. The specific flaw permits attackers to upload files with the prefix device followed by arbitrary extensions under any directory structure, effectively bypassing normal file system access controls and directory restrictions.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a multi-stage attack pattern that begins with account registration and progresses through file upload manipulation. Attackers can leverage the unrestricted upload capability to place malicious files with the device prefix in directories accessible by the web server, potentially leading to privilege escalation and server-side code execution. The path traversal component allows attackers to navigate the file system beyond intended boundaries, enabling them to place files in critical system directories or overwrite existing legitimate files. This combination creates a dangerous scenario where attackers can deploy phishing content, inject cross-site scripting payloads, and ultimately achieve arbitrary code execution on the target server. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-434 Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type, representing a classic example of insecure file handling in web applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-24809 extends beyond simple data compromise to encompass complete system takeover capabilities for attackers who successfully exploit the vulnerability. Organizations using vulnerable Traccar versions face significant risks including unauthorized access to GPS tracking data, potential disruption of tracking services, and exposure of sensitive location information for vehicles and assets. The vulnerability enables attackers to establish persistent access points through malicious file uploads, potentially creating backdoors for continued unauthorized access. Additionally, the ability to execute arbitrary commands on the server compromises the integrity of the entire tracking infrastructure, potentially affecting thousands of tracked devices and their associated data. The attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter, demonstrating how initial access through vulnerable web applications can escalate to full system compromise.
Organizations should immediately upgrade to Traccar version 6.0 or later to remediate this vulnerability, as the patch addresses both the path traversal and unrestricted file upload issues. Additional mitigations include implementing strict file type validation, enforcing proper directory permissions, disabling public registration if not required, and deploying web application firewalls to monitor and block suspicious upload attempts. Security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments of their tracking infrastructure and monitor for indicators of compromise related to unauthorized file uploads or unusual system behavior. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of proper input validation, secure file handling practices, and regular security updates in critical infrastructure systems. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to the Traccar server and establish monitoring protocols for suspicious file upload activities, particularly those involving the device prefix pattern that indicates exploitation attempts.