CVE-2024-26261 in OAKlouds
Summary
by MITRE • 02/15/2024
The functionality for file download in HGiga OAKlouds' certain modules contains an Arbitrary File Read and Delete vulnerability. Attackers can put file path in specific request parameters, allowing them to download the file without login. Furthermore, the file will be deleted after being downloaded.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/24/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-26261 affects HGiga OAKlouds' file download functionality across specific modules, presenting a critical security risk that enables unauthorized access to sensitive data. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and access control mechanisms within the application's file handling processes, allowing attackers to manipulate request parameters to gain access to files that should otherwise be protected. The vulnerability operates through a direct path traversal mechanism where malicious actors can specify arbitrary file paths in download requests, bypassing authentication requirements entirely. This represents a fundamental breakdown in the application's security architecture, as the system fails to properly validate user inputs and enforce proper authorization checks before executing file operations. The flaw manifests when the application processes file download requests without sufficient sanitization of the file path parameter, enabling attackers to traverse the file system and access files outside of the intended directory structure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability also demonstrates characteristics of CWE-200, which covers exposure of sensitive information, as the arbitrary file read capability allows attackers to access potentially sensitive files including configuration data, user information, and system files. The operational impact extends beyond simple data theft, as the vulnerability includes an additional destructive component where files are automatically deleted after download, creating a scenario that combines information disclosure with data destruction. This dual nature of the vulnerability significantly increases the potential damage, as attackers can not only access sensitive data but also permanently remove it from the system, potentially causing operational disruption and compliance violations.
The attack surface for this vulnerability encompasses all modules within HGiga OAKlouds that implement file download functionality, particularly those handling user-generated content, system logs, configuration files, or any sensitive data stored on the server. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability without requiring authentication credentials, making it particularly dangerous as it eliminates the need for initial access or privilege escalation. The exploitation process involves crafting malicious HTTP requests with specifically formatted file path parameters that bypass normal access controls and trigger the vulnerable code path. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where the application may be running with elevated privileges or where sensitive files are stored in accessible locations. The automatic deletion feature after download creates a scenario where attackers can systematically enumerate and destroy files, potentially leading to complete system compromise or data loss. Security frameworks such as the MITRE ATT&CK matrix classify this behavior under T1566 for credential harvesting and T1485 for data destruction, indicating both information gathering and destructive capabilities. The vulnerability also impacts compliance requirements under standards such as SOC 2, ISO 27001, and GDPR, as unauthorized access and deletion of files constitutes a breach of data protection and privacy regulations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-26261 must address both the authentication bypass and the file deletion functionality. Organizations should implement robust input validation and sanitization measures that prevent path traversal attacks through the use of allowlists for acceptable file paths and proper parameter validation. The application should enforce strict access controls that require proper authentication and authorization before processing any file download requests, eliminating the possibility of anonymous access to file system resources. Additionally, the file deletion functionality should be reviewed and modified to prevent automatic deletion during download operations, or at minimum require explicit confirmation from authorized users before executing destructive operations. Implementing proper logging and monitoring of file access and deletion events will help detect and respond to exploitation attempts. Regular security testing including penetration testing and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application modules. The remediation process should include updating the application to prevent arbitrary file path manipulation in download requests, implementing proper access control mechanisms, and ensuring that file operations do not automatically delete files without explicit user confirmation. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and security monitoring solutions to detect and block malicious file path traversal attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in preventing directory traversal attacks, particularly in applications handling sensitive data where unauthorized access can lead to significant operational and regulatory consequences.