CVE-2024-41788: Critical Code Execution Vulnerability in SENTRON 7KT PAC1260 Data Manager

Overview

CVE-2024-41788 is a critical security vulnerability found in all versions of SENTRON 7KT PAC1260 Data Manager. The vulnerability lies in the web interface of these devices, specifically in the lack of input sanitization in certain GET requests. This vulnerability can be exploited by an authenticated remote attacker to execute arbitrary code with root privileges. The severity and potential system compromise or data leakage caused by this vulnerability make it a critical issue that demands immediate attention.

Vulnerability Summary

CVE ID: CVE-2024-41788
Severity: Critical (CVSS 9.1)
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: Low (Authenticated user)
User Interaction: None
Impact: System compromise, Potential data leakage

Affected Products

Product | Affected Versions

SENTRON 7KT PAC1260 Data Manager | All versions

How the Exploit Works

The vulnerability lies in the web interface of the SENTRON 7KT PAC1260 Data Manager. Specifically, the interface fails to sanitize the input parameters of certain GET requests properly. This lack of input sanitization can be exploited by an authenticated remote attacker. By crafting and sending malicious GET requests, the attacker can potentially execute arbitrary code with root privileges on the targeted device, leading to system compromise or data leakage.

Conceptual Example Code

The following is a conceptual example of how an attacker might exploit this vulnerability. Please note, this is a simplified example and real-world exploits may involve more complex methods.

GET /vulnerable/endpoint?param=<script>malicious_code_here</script> HTTP/1.1
Host: target.example.com
Cookie: sessionId=authenticated_user_session_id

In this example, the attacker sends a GET request with a malicious script embedded in the parameter. As the web interface does not sanitize this input, the script is executed with root privileges, leading to potential system compromise or data leakage.

Mitigation

Vulnerable users are advised to apply the vendor-provided patch immediately. If the patch is not available or cannot be applied immediately, using a Web Application Firewall (WAF) or Intrusion Detection System (IDS) can offer temporary mitigation. It’s also recommended to always follow good cybersecurity practices such as maintaining up-to-date software, regularly patching and hardening systems, and limiting the privileges of system accounts.