CVE-2022-25249 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A directory traversal vulnerability has been identified in PTC's Axeda agent and Axeda Desktop Server for Windows, potentially allowing remote attackers to access file system data. Here's everything you need to know about CVE-2022-25249.

Understanding CVE-2022-25249

CVE-2022-25249 is a high-severity vulnerability impacting Axeda agent and Axeda Desktop Server for Windows, exposing systems to unauthorized file system access.

What is CVE-2022-25249?

The vulnerability in Axeda agent and Axeda Desktop Server for Windows allows remote unauthenticated attackers to exploit directory traversal, leading to potential file system read access via the web server.

The Impact of CVE-2022-25249

With a CVSS base score of 7.5, the vulnerability poses a high risk to confidentiality, enabling attackers to view sensitive data without authentication.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-25249

The following technical details shed light on the specifics of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Axeda agent and Axeda Desktop Server for Windows arises from improper directory traversal implementation, allowing unauthorized access to file system data.

Affected Systems and Versions

All versions of Axeda agent and Axeda Desktop Server for Windows are susceptible to this vulnerability, except for Axeda agent versions 6.9.2 and 6.9.3.

Exploitation Mechanism

Remote unauthenticated attackers can exploit the vulnerability by connecting to a specific port, enabling them to traverse directories and read files from the target system.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard systems from CVE-2022-25249, immediate steps and long-term security measures are crucial.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to Axeda agent Version 6.9.2 build 1049 or 6.9.3 build 1051 if using older versions.
Configure both Axeda agent and Axeda Desktop Server to only listen on the local host interface 127.0.0.1.
Implement unique passwords in the AxedaDesktop.ini file for each unit.
Avoid using ERemoteServer in production environments.
Delete the ERemoteServer file from host devices.
Restrict ERemoteServer connections to trusted hosts only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly apply patches and updates provided by PTC.
Upgrade Axeda Desktop Server to Version 6.9 build 215.
Ensure proper configuration for secure communications between components.

Patching and Updates

PTC recommends upgrading to Axeda agent 6.9.1 or above to benefit from the loopback-only configuration feature.