CVE-2024-25641 in Cacti
Summary
by MITRE • 05/14/2024
Cacti provides an operational monitoring and fault management framework. Prior to version 1.2.27, an arbitrary file write vulnerability, exploitable through the "Package Import" feature, allows authenticated users having the "Import Templates" permission to execute arbitrary PHP code on the web server. The vulnerability is located within the `import_package()` function defined into the `/lib/import.php` script. The function blindly trusts the filename and file content provided within the XML data, and writes such files into the Cacti base path (or even outside, since path traversal sequences are not filtered). This can be exploited to write or overwrite arbitrary files on the web server, leading to execution of arbitrary PHP code or other security impacts. Version 1.2.27 contains a patch for this issue.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/28/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2024-25641 represents a critical arbitrary file write flaw within the Cacti monitoring framework that affects versions prior to 1.2.27. This issue stems from insufficient input validation within the package import functionality, creating a pathway for authenticated attackers with specific permissions to gain remote code execution capabilities. The vulnerability specifically targets the import_package() function located in the /lib/import.php script, where the application fails to properly sanitize file paths and content from XML data during the import process. The flaw allows malicious actors to manipulate the import mechanism to write files to arbitrary locations on the web server filesystem, potentially enabling complete system compromise through PHP code execution.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an authenticated user possessing the "Import Templates" permission, which demonstrates that the attack vector operates within the context of legitimate administrative access. However, the severity lies in the fact that this permission level can potentially be obtained through various means including credential compromise or privilege escalation attacks. The root cause of the vulnerability is the absence of proper path traversal filtering and filename validation, allowing attackers to inject malicious file paths containing sequences such as ../ that can traverse directory structures beyond the intended target locations. This blind trust in user-provided XML data creates a dangerous condition where attacker-controlled file content can be written to any location within the web server's directory structure, potentially including critical system directories or the web root itself.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple file manipulation, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise through remote code execution. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious PHP scripts that can be executed by the web server, potentially establishing persistent backdoors, exfiltrating sensitive data, or launching further attacks against the internal network. The vulnerability's location within the package import feature means that legitimate system administrators could inadvertently trigger the exploit during routine maintenance operations, making detection more challenging. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-94 Code Injection categories, representing a combination of directory traversal and code execution flaws that can result in significant security breaches. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that Cacti systems are often deployed in enterprise environments where they serve as critical infrastructure monitoring tools, making them attractive targets for adversaries seeking persistent access to network operations.
Organizations should immediately upgrade to Cacti version 1.2.27 or later to address this vulnerability, as the patch includes proper input validation and sanitization of file paths during the import process. System administrators should also implement additional security measures including restricting import permissions to only trusted users, monitoring import activities for suspicious patterns, and conducting regular security assessments of the monitoring infrastructure. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit the potential impact if an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1078 Valid Accounts, as it enables adversaries to execute code through legitimate administrative interfaces while potentially leveraging compromised credentials to gain initial access. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management systems to ensure timely deployment of security updates and establish monitoring procedures that can detect unauthorized file modifications or suspicious import activities within their monitoring infrastructure.