CVE-2024-25386 in DICOM Connectivity Framework
Summary
by MITRE • 03/01/2024
Directory Traversal vulnerability in DICOM® Connectivity Framework by laurelbridge before v.2.7.6b allows a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code via the format_logfile.pl file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/15/2026
The CVE-2024-25386 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the laurelbridge DICOM® Connectivity Framework, a widely used medical imaging communication software that facilitates the exchange of medical images and related data between healthcare systems. This vulnerability specifically affects versions prior to v.2.7.6b and exposes the framework to remote code execution attacks through manipulation of the format_logfile.pl file. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and path handling mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before processing file operations. The DICOM framework serves as a cornerstone for medical imaging interoperability, making this vulnerability particularly concerning given the sensitive nature of healthcare data and the critical infrastructure dependencies within medical facilities.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts malicious input that manipulates the format_logfile.pl script to traverse directories beyond its intended scope. This directory traversal capability allows adversaries to access arbitrary files on the server filesystem, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The flaw typically manifests when the application processes user-provided parameters without proper sanitization, enabling attackers to inject sequences such as "../" or similar path traversal patterns that bypass normal access controls. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. Such attacks are categorized under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, where adversaries execute malicious code through compromised system interfaces.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-25386 extends beyond simple remote code execution, presenting significant risks to healthcare organizations and their critical medical infrastructure. Given that DICOM systems often handle sensitive patient information, the compromise of such systems could lead to data breaches, patient privacy violations, and potential disruption of medical services. Healthcare facilities relying on laurelbridge software may face regulatory compliance issues under HIPAA and similar data protection frameworks, as unauthorized access to medical records constitutes serious violations. The vulnerability's remote exploitation capability means that attackers need not have physical access to the network, making it particularly dangerous for healthcare organizations with extensive network connectivity. Additionally, the attack surface includes not just direct system compromise but also potential lateral movement within network environments where DICOM systems are deployed.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including updating to laurelbridge DICOM® Connectivity Framework version 2.7.6b or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the directory traversal vulnerability. Network segmentation and access controls should be reinforced to limit exposure of DICOM systems to untrusted networks, while implementing proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous file access patterns and unusual directory traversal attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues within the broader IT infrastructure, particularly in systems handling medical imaging data. The remediation process should also include comprehensive testing to ensure that the patch does not introduce compatibility issues with existing medical imaging workflows. Organizations should also consider implementing network intrusion detection systems specifically configured to identify directory traversal attack patterns targeting medical imaging systems, as these attacks may not be easily detected by standard security monitoring tools.