Description
A critical vulnerability has been identified in the EmailTemplates component of SugarCRM, a customer relationship management system. A crafted request can inject custom PHP code due to missing input validation.
Affected Product(s)
- SugarCRM versions 11.0.0 to 11.0.4 and 12.0.0 to 12.0.1
Technical Details
SugarCRM has been identified with a critical vulnerability, specifically within its EmailTemplates component. This vulnerability arises from the inadequacy in input validation, allowing a crafted request to inject and execute custom PHP code on the server. The affected versions of SugarCRM include 11.0.0 to 11.0.4 and 12.0.0 to 12.0.1.
In the reported exploit, the vulnerability targets the `/index.php?module=EmailTemplates&action=AttachFiles` endpoint. Due to improper input validation, a malicious PNG file containing embedded PHP code can be uploaded to the `/cache/images/` directory on the server. If the server is configured to execute PHP code in this directory, the embedded PHP code will run, allowing arbitrary code execution and potential full system compromise.
The vulnerability is marked as a High severity issue with a CVSSv3 score of 8.8 and a CVSSv2 score of 10.0. This scoring reflects the potential risks and impacts of exploitation, which include gaining unauthorized access to sensitive data, executing arbitrary code, and compromising the server’s integrity and availability.
The vulnerability does not require any form of authentication due to a missing authentication check in the `loadUser()` method within `include/MVC/SugarApplication.php`. Even after a failed login attempt, the session remains active, allowing the attacker to continue sending valid requests to the application. Hence, any remote attacker, irrespective of authentication status, can exploit this vulnerability to gain access to the underlying operating system as the web service user (typically `www-data`).
This vulnerability has been actively exploited in the wild. The exploit code for this vulnerability has been published on platforms such as Full Disclosure, indicating the widespread availability of this exploit. The availability of the exploit code considerably raises the risk associated with this vulnerability, making it imperative for affected users to take immediate remediation actions.
The final solution includes applying a fix or upgrading to the latest version as recommended by SugarCRM. Patch versions 11.0.5 and 12.0.2 address this vulnerability and implement proper input validation in the EmailTemplates component. Users are advised to upgrade to these versions or apply the necessary patches immediately.
Weakness
The vulnerabilities associated with this issue are Improper Input Validation (CWE-20) and Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type (CWE-434). These weaknesses result in the system being unable to properly sanitize user-supplied input, allowing malicious files to be uploaded and executed.
Impact Assessment
If exploited, this vulnerability could allow an attacker to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data, execute arbitrary code, and potentially compromise the entire affected system. The attacker can embed malicious code in a seemingly harmless file, which, when executed, can provide full control over the server.
Active Exploitation
We have observed that this vulnerability has been actively exploited. Notable exploits include those published by the adversary group leveraging platforms like Full Disclosure to share exploit code targeting this vulnerability in SugarCRM.
Ransomware Association
This specific vulnerability in SugarCRM has not been associated with any known ransomware attacks directly. However, the nature of remote code execution vulnerabilities infers a high risk of such use cases, given that gaining full control of a system can lead to potential ransomware deployment.
Mitigation and Resolution
SugarCRM has released patches that address this critical vulnerability. Users must immediately update to versions 11.0.5 or 12.0.2 to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability. Upgrading to these versions includes proper input validation in the EmailTemplates component, thereby neutralizing the potential for executing custom PHP code.
Recommendations
- We strongly recommend that all customers apply the latest patch as soon as possible.
- Update to SugarCRM versions 11.0.5 or 12.0.2 immediately.
- Ensure proper configuration to minimize executable permissions in web directories.
- Regularly review and monitor web application configurations for any anomalies.
- Implement proper access controls and session management to prevent unauthorized access.
- Consider using a web application firewall (WAF) to provide an additional layer of security against such vulnerabilities.
- Stay updated with the latest security advisories from SugarCRM and other security communities.
ย References
- Zero Day Database
- CVE MITRE Database
- National Vulnerability Database
- PacketStorm Advisory on SugarCRM 12.x RCE
- SugarCRM Product Updates
- SugarCRM Security Hotfix Update
- SugarCRM Security Resources