CVE-2024-9617 Scanner

Danswer is a software tool utilized by various businesses and organizations to manage and retrieve data efficiently. It serves as a chat interface for accessing file information stored within an organization's network. Users interact with the software to organize, access, and share documentation and data across teams. It is designed to improve workplace productivity by streamlining data access and management processes. The platform is often deployed within internal networks of medium to large enterprises to ensure seamless data and document accessibility. By leveraging Danswer, organizations aim to facilitate optimized communication and information flow within their digital infrastructures.

Insecure Direct Object References (IDOR) is a vulnerability in Danswer that allows unauthorized users to access files they do not have permission to view. This vulnerability arises when the application fails to ensure that file access requests are from authorized users. Essentially, it allows attackers to manipulate file identifiers and gain access to sensitive information. This lack of validation poses a serious threat to data security as it permits potentially harmful and unauthorized data exposure. IDOR vulnerabilities can be exploited in environments where user permissions are inadequately enforced. The existence of this vulnerability in Danswer could lead to disclosure of sensitive files and data breaches.

The technical details of this IDOR vulnerability involve the GET /api/chat/file/{file_id} endpoint within Danswer's chat interface. Attackers can exploit the endpoint to access file identifiers and retrieve files without proper authorization checks. The vulnerability is found in the API's handling of file requests where the absence of strict validation allows unauthorized file access. This is exacerbated by the application’s assumption that users are naturally restricted to their own files without verifying ownership. By manipulating parameters such as file IDs, attackers can enumerate and extract any file stored within the system. Unauthorized access occurs when a legitimate user’s file identifier is determined and used by an attacker without consent or verification.

Exploit of this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized data exposure and potential data breaches. Malicious actors may access, download, or manipulate sensitive files belonging to other users within the organization. This can compromise company confidentiality, lead to reputational damage, or legal repercussions from data protection regulations violations. It could also enable further attacks by leveraging sensitive information uncovered during unauthorized access. Consequently, system administrators should prioritize addressing this vulnerability to prevent unauthorized access and safeguard sensitive organizational data.

REFERENCES

• https://huntr.com/bounties/8f683ff6-3a99-41c6-b763-a8f7b73bd146
• https://github.com/danswer-ai/danswer