CVE-2017-5229 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Rapid7 Metasploit versions prior to 4.13.0-2017020701 are vulnerable to a directory traversal issue that allows unauthorized writing to any directory on the Metasploit console.

Understanding CVE-2017-5229

This CVE involves a directory traversal vulnerability in Rapid7 Metasploit, potentially leading to unauthorized data writing.

What is CVE-2017-5229?

The vulnerability in Rapid7 Metasploit allows an attacker to write data to any directory on the Metasploit console using a specially designed Meterpreter build.

The Impact of CVE-2017-5229

The vulnerability enables unauthorized writing to directories on the Metasploit console, utilizing the permissions of the running Metasploit instance.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-5229

Rapid7 Metasploit is affected by a directory traversal vulnerability, allowing unauthorized data writing.

Vulnerability Description

The Clipboard.parse_dump() function in Rapid7 Metasploit versions prior to 4.13.0-2017020701 is susceptible to a directory traversal vulnerability.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Metasploit
Vendor: Rapid7
Vulnerable Versions: All versions prior to 4.13.0-2017020701

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability permits writing data to any directory on the Metasploit console using a specially designed Meterpreter build.

Mitigation and Prevention

Taking immediate steps and implementing long-term security practices are crucial to mitigating the risks associated with CVE-2017-5229.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Rapid7 Metasploit to version 4.13.0-2017020701 or later.
Monitor and restrict access to vulnerable systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to prevent vulnerabilities.
Implement access controls and least privilege principles.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by Rapid7 to address the directory traversal vulnerability in Metasploit.