CVE-2025-43928 in Media Relay Service
Summary
by MITRE • 04/20/2025
In Infodraw Media Relay Service (MRS) 7.1.0.0, the MRS web server (on port 12654) allows reading arbitrary files via ../ directory traversal in the username field. Reading ServerParameters.xml may reveal administrator credentials in cleartext or with MD5 hashing.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/26/2025
The Infodraw Media Relay Service version 7.1.0.0 contains a critical directory traversal vulnerability that affects the web server component operating on port 12654. This flaw resides in the username field processing logic where insufficient input validation allows attackers to manipulate file paths through directory traversal sequences using the ../ notation. The vulnerability represents a classic path traversal attack vector that enables unauthorized access to sensitive system files beyond the intended application boundaries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper sanitization of user-supplied input within the authentication or user management components of the MRS service. When the system processes a username parameter containing directory traversal sequences, it fails to properly validate or sanitize the input before using it in file system operations. This allows an attacker to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access arbitrary files on the server. The vulnerability specifically targets the username field, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited during authentication attempts or user management operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. An attacker who successfully exploits this directory traversal flaw can gain access to the ServerParameters.xml configuration file, which contains critical system information including administrator credentials stored in cleartext or using MD5 hashing. This exposure creates a significant risk of privilege escalation and system compromise, as administrative access credentials can be directly extracted without requiring additional authentication mechanisms. The cleartext credentials provide immediate access to administrative functions, while MD5-hashed passwords can be cracked using readily available rainbow table attacks or brute force techniques. The vulnerability essentially provides an attacker with a direct path to administrative control of the Media Relay Service.
This vulnerability maps directly to CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 - Valid Accounts and T1566 - Phishing. The directory traversal represents a fundamental flaw in input validation and access control mechanisms, while the credential exposure enables lateral movement and persistence within the target environment. Organizations using Infodraw MRS 7.1.0.0 are at significant risk of unauthorized access and potential system compromise, particularly in environments where the service operates with elevated privileges or contains sensitive operational data.
The recommended mitigation strategy involves immediate implementation of input validation controls to sanitize all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file system operations. Organizations should apply the vendor-provided security patch or update to a version that addresses this directory traversal vulnerability. Additionally, network segmentation should be implemented to restrict access to port 12654, and the service should be configured to run with minimal required privileges. Regular security audits should include verification of file access controls and input validation mechanisms to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future implementations. System monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts.