CVE-2026-18188 in ADM
Summary
by MITRE • 07/30/2026
A format string vulnerability was found in the Rsync Backup on the ADM. The vulnerability occurs because user-controlled rsync backup configuration or log data may be processed through an unsafe format string operation. An authenticated attacker can exploit this issue to disclose memory information or cause denial of service of the affected backup component. Affected products and versions include: from ADM 4.1.0 through ADM 4.3.3.RUN1 as well as from ADM 5.0.0 through ADM 5.1.3.RI81.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/30/2026
This vulnerability represents a critical format string flaw in the Rsync Backup functionality of the ADM (Application Delivery Manager) system, classified under CWE-134 which specifically addresses the use of non-constant format strings. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the backup component where user-supplied data from rsync configuration parameters or log entries is directly passed to unsafe formatting functions without adequate sanitization. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious input that contains format specifiers such as %s, %x, or %p which are then interpreted by the underlying printf family of functions, leading to unauthorized memory disclosure or system instability.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform arbitrary memory reads that could reveal sensitive system information including stack contents, heap addresses, or other confidential data structures. This memory disclosure can serve as a foundation for more sophisticated attacks including privilege escalation attempts or bypassing security mechanisms through address space layout randomization (ASLR) exploitation. The vulnerability affects multiple version ranges including ADM 4.1.0 through 4.3.3.RUN1 and ADM 5.0.0 through 5.1.3.RI8, indicating this flaw has persisted across several major releases suggesting inadequate input validation controls throughout the product lifecycle.
From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage, as attackers can leverage the format string capabilities to manipulate system behavior through crafted backup configurations. The authenticated nature of the exploit means that attackers must first establish valid credentials within the system, but once achieved, they can systematically extract memory contents or cause service disruption through controlled format string exploitation patterns. This type of vulnerability commonly maps to ATT&CK tactic TA0005 (Defense Evasion) and TA0006 (Credential Access) as it can be used both for information gathering and privilege escalation within the system boundaries.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper input sanitization and validation mechanisms throughout the Rsync backup component, specifically ensuring that all user-controlled data is properly escaped or validated before being processed through any formatting operations. The recommended approach involves replacing unsafe format string functions with safe alternatives such as snprintf or using constant format strings only when processing user input. Additionally, implementing strict access controls and monitoring for anomalous backup configuration changes can help detect exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider applying patches or updates to the affected ADM versions immediately, as the vulnerability exists across multiple release streams indicating it was not properly addressed in the security hardening processes. System administrators should implement network segmentation and monitoring of backup operations to limit potential attack surface and detect unauthorized access attempts to backup configuration interfaces.