CVE-2024-3706 in OpenGnsys
Summary
by MITRE • 04/12/2024
Information exposure vulnerability in OpenGnsys affecting version 1.1.1d (Espeto). This vulnerability allows an attacker to view a php backup file (controlaccess.php-LAST) where database credentials are stored.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-3706 represents a critical information exposure flaw within the OpenGnsys platform version 1.1.1d known as Espeto. This issue stems from improper access controls and configuration management that allows unauthorized users to retrieve sensitive backup files containing database authentication credentials. The vulnerability specifically targets the controlaccess.php-LAST file which serves as a php backup file storing critical database connection parameters that should remain protected from public access.
This technical flaw constitutes a direct violation of security principles and can be categorized under CWE-200 Information Exposure, where sensitive data is accessible to unauthorized parties. The vulnerability exists due to inadequate file access controls and improper configuration of web server permissions, allowing attackers to directly access backup files through predictable naming conventions. The controlaccess.php-LAST file contains database credentials that provide attackers with persistent access to the underlying database infrastructure, enabling them to extract, modify, or exfiltrate sensitive institutional data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it creates a persistent backdoor for attackers to maintain access to the OpenGnsys system. Once database credentials are obtained, attackers can leverage them to perform unauthorized data access operations, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment, where attackers can use the stolen credentials to escalate privileges and move laterally within the network infrastructure. The exposure of database credentials also enables attackers to perform data manipulation, information gathering, and potential denial of service attacks against the system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-3706 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. Organizations should immediately implement proper file access controls by restricting web server access to backup files and ensuring that backup files are stored outside of the web root directory. The system should be configured to prevent direct access to files with extensions such as .php-LAST, .bak, or other backup file formats. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and access control mechanisms can prevent attackers from exploiting predictable file naming patterns. Security configurations should follow industry standards including NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001 guidelines for information security management. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar misconfigurations, while implementing automated monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized access attempts to sensitive files. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper file management and access control configurations in preventing information disclosure attacks that can lead to complete system compromise.