CVE-2024-48939 in Net2
Summary
by MITRE • 11/11/2024
Insufficient validation performed on the REST API License file in Paxton Net2 before 6.07.14023.5015 (SR4) enables use of the REST API with an invalid License File. Attackers may be able to retrieve access-log data.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/20/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-48939 represents a critical authorization flaw within the Paxton Net2 access control system that affects versions prior to 6.07.14023.5015 (SR4). This issue stems from inadequate validation mechanisms within the REST API licensing framework, creating a pathway for unauthorized access to sensitive operational data. The vulnerability specifically targets the license file validation process, which should normally ensure that only properly authenticated and authorized systems can utilize the REST API endpoints. When this validation fails, it creates a condition where malicious actors can bypass legitimate licensing requirements and gain access to the system's REST API interface.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability manifests as a lack of proper input validation and authentication checks within the license file processing module. The REST API in Paxton Net2 systems typically requires valid licensing credentials to authorize access to various system functions including access-log data retrieval. However, the insufficient validation mechanism allows attackers to submit malformed or invalid license files that are not properly rejected by the system. This weakness creates an authentication bypass scenario where the system accepts invalid credentials and grants access to restricted API endpoints. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-287 which addresses improper authentication issues in software systems, specifically focusing on the failure to properly validate authentication tokens or credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass potential data exfiltration and system compromise. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can retrieve comprehensive access-log data, which typically contains detailed information about user access attempts, time-stamped entry records, and potentially sensitive operational details. This access-log data could reveal patterns of system usage, identify high-value targets, and provide attackers with intelligence for further exploitation. The exposure of such information creates significant risk for organizations relying on Paxton Net2 systems for physical security management, as the data could be used to map access patterns, identify system vulnerabilities, or support social engineering attacks against personnel.
The attack vector for this vulnerability typically involves an attacker who gains initial access to the system or network environment and then attempts to exploit the license validation weakness through the REST API interface. This approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 which covers credential harvesting and T1071 which addresses application layer protocols. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require extensive privileges or specialized tools, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by attackers with basic technical knowledge. Organizations may be unaware of the unauthorized access until significant damage has occurred, as the system continues to operate normally while providing unauthorized access to sensitive data through the API endpoints.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-48939 focus primarily on updating to the patched version 6.07.14023.5015 (SR4) which includes proper license validation mechanisms. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to the REST API endpoints, enforce strict access controls on system administrators, and monitor API access logs for suspicious activities. Additional defensive measures include implementing network intrusion detection systems to monitor for unusual API access patterns and ensuring that all systems maintain current security patches. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and authentication mechanisms in API design, as recommended by OWASP API Security Top 10 guidelines that emphasize the need for robust authentication and authorization controls in web services. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments of their access control systems to identify similar validation weaknesses that could be exploited by threat actors.