CVE-2024-27575 in WebServer CPS220-64
Summary
by MITRE • 04/04/2024
Directory Traversal vulnerability in INOTEC Sicherheitstechnik GmbH INOTEC Sicherheitstechnik GmbH WebServer CPS220/64 V.3.3.19 allows a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code via the /etc/passwd file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/09/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-27575 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the INOTEC Sicherheitstechnik GmbH WebServer software version 3.3.19. This issue affects the CPS220/64 security device and stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to manipulate file path references and access sensitive system files including the critical /etc/passwd file which contains user account information and password hashes. The flaw exists in the web server component's handling of file requests where maliciously crafted URLs can bypass normal access controls and traverse the file system hierarchy to retrieve unauthorized data.
This directory traversal vulnerability operates under CWE-22 which classifies it as a weakness in input validation where insufficient restrictions are placed on user-supplied input that is used to construct file paths. The attack vector leverages the web server's inability to properly validate or sanitize file path parameters, allowing an attacker to append directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ to access files outside the intended directory structure. The specific exploitation involves crafting HTTP requests that target the web server's file handling routines, enabling access to system files that should remain protected from remote access. This vulnerability directly violates the principle of least privilege and can lead to information disclosure, system compromise, and potential privilege escalation depending on the system configuration.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure as it provides attackers with the ability to gather sensitive system information that can be used for further attacks. Access to /etc/passwd file reveals user account details including usernames, user identifiers, and group identifiers which can be leveraged for credential harvesting and social engineering attacks. The vulnerability also potentially enables attackers to access other sensitive configuration files and system resources that may contain additional credentials, system settings, or application data. Remote code execution capabilities can be achieved if the attacker can manipulate the web server to execute code through the directory traversal mechanism, particularly when combined with other vulnerabilities or when the server has insufficient access controls and proper file permissions.
Security mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate implementation of input validation controls that sanitize all user-supplied data before processing file requests. The web server configuration must be updated to disable or restrict access to sensitive system files through the web interface, implementing proper access controls and file path validation mechanisms. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be enforced to limit access to the affected web server to only authorized administrative networks and users. Additionally, the affected INOTEC devices should be updated to the latest firmware version that addresses this vulnerability, as the vendor has likely released patches or updates to resolve the directory traversal flaw. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other system components, with monitoring systems configured to detect and alert on suspicious file access patterns or attempts to traverse directory structures. Organizations should also implement the principle of least privilege and ensure that web server processes run with minimal required permissions to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts.