CVE-2017-16788 : Security Advisory and Response

A security flaw in Meinberg LANTIME devices allows remote authenticated users to gain root privileges by exploiting a directory traversal vulnerability in the Web Configuration Utility.

Understanding CVE-2017-16788

What is CVE-2017-16788?

A directory traversal vulnerability in the "Upload Groupkey" feature of Meinberg LANTIME devices enables remote authenticated users to write to any file and escalate privileges by uploading a file.

The Impact of CVE-2017-16788

This vulnerability allows attackers with Admin-User privileges to write to arbitrary files, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control over the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-16788

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in Meinberg LANTIME devices with firmware versions prior to 6.24.004 permits remote authenticated users to write to any file, granting them root privileges by uploading a file.

Affected Systems and Versions

Meinberg LANTIME devices with firmware versions before 6.24.004

Exploitation Mechanism

Remote authenticated users with Admin-User access can exploit the vulnerability by uploading a file, as demonstrated by saving a file in the cron.d directory.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Meinberg LANTIME devices to firmware version 6.24.004 or later.
Restrict access to the Web Configuration Utility to authorized users only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit file uploads and system access.
Implement strong authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by Meinberg to address the vulnerability.