MPSec ISG1000 Local File Inclusion Scanner

MPSec ISG1000 is a hardware device commonly used in network security setups by small to medium-sized enterprises. It functions as part of an integrated network security environment, providing firewall capabilities and traffic management. Organizations employ the ISG1000 to defend against external threats, manage bandwidth, and ensure secure remote access. Managed by IT professionals and system administrators, this device is a part of corporate networks to boost security measures. The MPSec ISG1000 supports multiple network protocols and is considered a robust solution for preventing unauthorized intrusions. Due to its exposure on public networks, it is crucial to regularly assess and protect this product against known vulnerabilities.

Local File Inclusion (LFI) is a type of vulnerability that allows an attacker to include files on a server through the web browser. This security flaw could enable unauthorized users to access sensitive files and execute malicious scripts already present on the server. LFI exploits typically occur in web applications where user input is not sufficiently sanitized. An attacker can manipulate the input fields to traverse directories and retrieve critical files like configuration or password files. If not remediated, systems that rely on file inclusion to gather data can become gateways for remote code execution attempts. The exploitation doesn't require special privileges, making it a significant threat to web-facing applications.

The technical aspect of the vulnerability in MPSec ISG1000 lies in its web interface, which improperly handles user input filenames. Specifically, the vulnerability is exploited by appending a file path such as "../../../../../../../../../../../etc/passwd" to a legitimate URL endpoint. Attackers use these directory traversal sequences to access sensitive system files residing outside the intended web directories. The paths targeted include both Linux and Windows file paths, showcasing the cross-platform nature of the flaw. The misconfigured file inclusion permits reading files, potentially leading to information disclosure. The identified vulnerability can be triggered by constructing malicious GET requests, aimed at accessing files like ‘passwd’ and ‘win.ini’. By successfully exploiting this, attackers achieve unintended data retrieval, critical for further penetration attacks.

Due to this vulnerability, attackers who successfully implement the Local File Inclusion (LFI) exploit can gain unauthorized access to sensitive server files. Exploitation may lead to unintended information disclosure, such as system credentials, enabling further compromises within the network. If the attacker accesses user-specific files, it may result in the exposure of private data, posing legal and privacy concerns for affected organizations. Moreover, LFI vulnerabilities facilitate escalation, allowing attackers to utilize retrieved scripts or configuration files for unsanctioned actions or further exploitation like Remote Code Execution (RCE). The improper handling of file paths opens pathways for attacks, which are often used in the reconnaissance phase of larger cyber-attacks aimed at gaining greater control of compromised networks.

REFERENCES

• https://twitter.com/sec715/status/1402884871173795842