Cacti Weathermap Arbitrary File Write Scanner

Cacti Weathermap is a plugin for Cacti, which is an open-source network monitoring and graphing tool used by network administrators to monitor and visualize network bandwidth and traffic. The software is widely used in data centers and by ISPs for tracking network performance and ensuring efficient resource use. It allows users to map out network topologies and view traffic data graphically, providing a comprehensive overview of network health. Cacti Weathermap enhances these capabilities by allowing users to create dynamic network maps that can reflect real-time data. The tool is primarily used by IT professionals seeking in-depth network insights and effective monitoring solutions. The plugin is particularly appealing due to its integration capabilities with Cacti and customizable features.

Code Injection is a vulnerability where an attacker can send executable code to a software application, which mistakenly executes it. This vulnerability can occur in web applications, like Cacti Weathermap, through unsanitized input in URL parameters or form submissions. When exploited, it allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the server where the application resides. This poses significant security risks, including unauthorized data access and data manipulation. Code Injection vulnerabilities are critical because they can compromise the underlying infrastructure of the application. Detecting and mitigating such vulnerabilities is crucial for maintaining the security of web applications.

The vulnerability in Cacti Weathermap exists due to improper input validation in the plugin's editor interface. The susceptible endpoints are accessed via GET requests, allowing attackers to manipulate the 'mapname' or 'action' parameters. The exploitation involves crafting a request to the weathermap editor, embedding code that can execute when the plugin processes the input. Given the server's response with a 200 status code, successful exploitation is confirmed by the presence of specific output in the response body. This vulnerability requires careful attention as it permits direct file manipulation on the server hosting the Cacti installation. Such vectors highlight the necessity for strict input validation and parameter sanitization.

Exploiting Code Injection in Cacti Weathermap can lead to severe outcomes such as unauthorized server access, data breaches, and compromised network maps, revealing sensitive network information. Attackers could manipulate map files to execute malicious scripts on the server, potentially altering network configurations or displaying fraudulent data on network graphs. This poses downtime risks if network changes disrupt operations or allow persistent footholds for further exploits. Furthermore, the vulnerability can become a pivot point for launching additional attacks within connected networks. Overall, the lack of input validation represents a significant threat to both data integrity and server security.