CVE-2022-38205 : What You Need to Know

In some non-default installations of Esri Portal for ArcGIS versions 10.9.1 and below, a directory traversal issue may allow a remote, unauthenticated attacker to traverse the file system and lead to the disclosure of sensitive data (not customer-published content).

Understanding CVE-2022-38205

This section delves into the details of the vulnerability, its impact, and how to mitigate the risks associated with it.

What is CVE-2022-38205?

CVE-2022-38205 pertains to a directory traversal vulnerability found in Esri Portal for ArcGIS versions 10.9.1, 10.8.1, and 10.7.1. This vulnerability could be exploited by a remote attacker to access sensitive data on the system.

The Impact of CVE-2022-38205

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as HIGH, with a CVSS v3.1 base score of 8.6. It poses a significant risk to the confidentiality of data as it could lead to the exposure of sensitive information.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-38205

Let's explore the specifics of the vulnerability that affects Esri's Portal for ArcGIS.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows an unauthenticated attacker to perform directory traversal, potentially resulting in the exposure of critical data on the file system.

Affected Systems and Versions

Esri Portal for ArcGIS versions 10.9.1, 10.8.1, and 10.7.1 are affected by this vulnerability when configured in non-default setups.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of this vulnerability involves leveraging the directory traversal issue to access files and directories beyond the intended scope, leading to data disclosure.

Mitigation and Prevention

Here, we outline the steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2022-38205 and prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the latest security patch provided by Esri to address the vulnerability.
Restrict network access to the affected systems to limit exposure.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and update your systems to stay protected against known vulnerabilities.
Implement proper access controls and authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates issued by Esri and promptly apply them to ensure your systems are secure.