CVE-2024-22401 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE record pertains to a vulnerability in the Nextcloud guests app that allows all users to reset the allowed apps list for guest app users, potentially leading to unauthorized access to apps that were not intended to be used.

Understanding CVE-2024-22401

This section provides an overview of the nature and impact of CVE-2024-22401.

What is CVE-2024-22401?

The Nextcloud guests app is designed to create guest users who can only access files shared with them. In affected versions of this app, users have the ability to modify the allowed list of apps, granting them access to applications that were not meant to be utilized. To address this issue, it is recommended to upgrade the Guests app to versions 2.4.1, 2.5.1, or 3.0.1.

The Impact of CVE-2024-22401

The vulnerability poses a medium severity risk with a base CVSS score of 4.1. While the confidentiality impact is low, the integrity impact is non-existent. Users are required to have low privileges, and the attack complexity is considered low. Immediate action is advised to mitigate potential exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2024-22401

This section delves into the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability, categorized under CWE-281 (Improper Preservation of Permissions), allows all users to reset the allowed apps list for Nextcloud Guest App users, potentially enabling unauthorized access to applications.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Nextcloud security-advisories versions:

= 2.4.0, < 2.4.1

= 2.5.0, < 2.5.1

= 3.0.0, < 3.0.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting this vulnerability requires network access, with low privileges and user interaction being necessary. The scope of impact is considered to be changed.

Mitigation and Prevention

In light of CVE-2024-22401, it is crucial to adopt immediate security measures and implement long-term practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Immediate Steps to Take

To mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2024-22401, it is strongly recommended to upgrade the Nextcloud Guests app to versions 2.4.1, 2.5.1, or 3.0.1. Additionally, users should review and restrict access permissions to prevent unauthorized app usage by guest users.

Long-Term Security Practices

Furthermore, organizations should prioritize regular security assessments, code reviews, and updates to ensure the ongoing integrity of their software systems. Employee training on security best practices can also help prevent such vulnerabilities from being exploited.

Patching and Updates

Upon the release of patches addressing CVE-2024-22401, organizations should promptly apply these updates to their Nextcloud environments. Keeping software up to date with the latest security fixes is essential in safeguarding against potential threats.