CNVD-2021-41972 Scanner

AceNet AceReporter is a component typically used in firewall devices for generating comprehensive reports. It is frequently deployed in environments where security tracking and report generation are critical, such as corporate networks, data centers, and organizational IT infrastructure. Network administrators and security professionals utilize AceReporter for its ability to collate and present data in a cohesive report format, aiding in routine security management and assessment tasks. Despite its intended security-enhancing function, convenience in file handling within the component can pose significant security risks if vulnerabilities are present. Organizations employing AceNet AceReporter are often among those that require robust reporting tools to support compliance and auditing activities related to their cybersecurity measures. Hence, the secure functioning of AceReporter is essential for maintaining overall network security posture.

Arbitrary File Download vulnerabilities allow attackers to download files that should be protected or barred from external access. This specific vulnerability affects systems that use the AceNet AceReporter Report component, enabling an unauthorized user to download files specified by the attacker. It can potentially be exploited without any authentication, making it particularly dangerous. This vulnerability might be due to insufficient input validation or improper handling of file paths by the application. If left unpatched, it can serve as an entry point for information theft or further exploitation attempts. The vulnerability can lead to data breaches by allowing unauthorized retrieval of files such as system configuration files, user data, or any other sensitive information stored on the compromised server.

The vulnerability in the AceNet AceReporter component allows attackers to manipulate the file download functionality to achieve unauthorized file access. A critical technical detail is the misuse of the download_file.php endpoint, which, when accessed with specific crafted requests, can leverage path traversal sequences to traverse directories and access files outside the intended download scope. The file's path and structure manipulation are typically done by injecting directory traversal characters such as '../' sequences in the filename parameter. Furthermore, lack of authorization checks or poorly implemented input sanitization exacerbate the risk. Attackers may target files containing sensitive configuration settings or system passwords, leading to unauthorized system access.

Exploitation of this Arbitrary File Download vulnerability can pose severe security threats to affected systems. If attackers successfully exploit this flaw, they can access sensitive data, extract confidential files, and leverage the information for further attacks such as privilege escalation or lateral movement within the network. Critical files like password configurations can be exposed, posing a risk to overall system integrity. Moreover, data exfiltration could enable attackers to bypass security controls, rendering systems vulnerable to additional exploits. Long-term impacts potentially include data breaches and loss of sensitive information, damaging the organization’s reputation, and leading to compliance violations and financial losses.

REFERENCES

• https://www.cnvd.org.cn/flaw/show/CNVD-2021-41972
• https://github.com/hktalent/scan4all/blob/main/lib/goby/goby_pocs/AceNet_AceReporter_Report_component_Arbitrary_file_download.txt