CVE-2024-38462 in iRODS
Summary
by MITRE • 06/16/2024
iRODS before 4.3.2 provides an msiSendMail function with a problematic dependency on the mail binary, such as in the mailMS.cpp#L94-L106 reference.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-38462 affects iRODS versions prior to 4.3.2 and centers on a critical flaw within the msiSendMail function that creates dangerous dependencies on system mail binaries. This issue represents a significant security concern as it allows for potential arbitrary code execution through improper handling of mail command execution. The vulnerability stems from the mailMS.cpp implementation where the system directly invokes mail binaries without adequate sanitization or validation of input parameters, creating an environment where malicious actors can manipulate the command execution flow. The problematic dependency chain originates from line 94 through line 106 of the mailMS.cpp file, where the system passes user-controllable data directly to system mail commands, bypassing proper input validation mechanisms.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-78, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and CWE-20, which covers improper input validation. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it enables privilege escalation and remote code execution when attackers can manipulate the mail sending functionality. The operational impact extends beyond simple command injection as it can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other vulnerabilities or when the system has elevated privileges for mail operations. The flaw is particularly dangerous in environments where iRODS serves as a data management platform with extensive access controls, as it can be leveraged to bypass authentication mechanisms or escalate privileges within the data management infrastructure.
The exploitation of this vulnerability typically involves crafting malicious input that gets passed through the msiSendMail function to the underlying mail binary, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the iRODS service account. This attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and script injection, and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. Organizations utilizing iRODS in production environments face significant risk as this vulnerability can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication, particularly when the system configuration allows for external mail relay or when default configurations are in place that permit command execution. The lack of proper input sanitization and the direct invocation of system binaries without proper context validation creates a persistent threat that can be leveraged across multiple attack scenarios.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching to iRODS version 4.3.2 or later, which addresses the problematic mail binary dependency through proper input validation and command execution handling. Additionally, system administrators should implement network segmentation to limit access to iRODS services and disable unnecessary mail functionality when not required for operations. The implementation of proper input validation frameworks and the replacement of direct binary execution with safer alternative mail handling mechanisms should be prioritized. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive security assessments of their iRODS installations to identify potential privilege escalation paths and ensure that the service account has minimal required permissions. Regular monitoring of mail-related system calls and implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify suspicious command execution patterns will further enhance security posture against this and similar vulnerabilities.