CVE-2017-15276 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-15276, a vulnerability in OpenText Documentum Content Server allowing privilege escalation. Find out how to mitigate and prevent this security issue.
OpenText Documentum Content Server (formerly EMC Documentum Content Server) version 7.3 and below contain a design flaw that allows an authorized user to gain superuser privileges by exploiting a vulnerability during the unpacking process of TAR archives.
Understanding CVE-2017-15276
This CVE involves a path traversal vulnerability that can be exploited through the use of symlinks, potentially leading to privilege escalation within the Content Server.
What is CVE-2017-15276?
The vulnerability in OpenText Documentum Content Server allows an authenticated user to upload content using TAR archives. However, the server fails to validate the contents of these archives, enabling a path traversal vulnerability via symlinks.
The Impact of CVE-2017-15276
The exploitation of this vulnerability can result in an attacker obtaining superuser privileges, potentially accessing sensitive security information stored on the Content Server filesystem.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-15276
OpenText Documentum Content Server vulnerability details:
Vulnerability Description
- Design flaw in version 7.3 and below
- Allows an authorized user to escalate privileges
- Path traversal vulnerability via symlinks
Affected Systems and Versions
- OpenText Documentum Content Server (formerly EMC Documentum Content Server) version 7.3 and below
Exploitation Mechanism
- Uploading content using TAR archives
- Lack of validation during unpacking process
- Path traversal achieved through symlinks
Mitigation and Prevention
Steps to address CVE-2017-15276:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor-supplied patches or updates
- Monitor and restrict access to sensitive files
- Implement file integrity checks
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regular security assessments and audits
- Security training for users and administrators
- Implement least privilege access controls
Patching and Updates
- Update to a patched version of OpenText Documentum Content Server
- Regularly check for security advisories and updates from the vendor