CVE-2017-5231 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-5231, a directory traversal vulnerability in Rapid7 Metasploit allowing unauthorized file writing. Find mitigation steps and update information here.
A directory traversal vulnerability in Rapid7 Metasploit allows unauthorized writing of files to any directory on the Metasploit console.
Understanding CVE-2017-5231
What is CVE-2017-5231?
This vulnerability in Rapid7 Metasploit versions prior to 4.13.0-2017020701 enables an attacker to manipulate the Meterpreter stdapi CommandDispatcher.cmd_download() function to write files to any directory on the Metasploit console.
The Impact of CVE-2017-5231
The vulnerability permits unauthorized file writing on the Metasploit console, potentially leading to unauthorized access and data manipulation.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-5231
Vulnerability Description
A directory traversal flaw in Rapid7 Metasploit versions before 4.13.0-2017020701 allows malicious actors to write files to any directory on the Metasploit console.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Metasploit
- Vendor: Rapid7
- Versions affected: All versions prior to 4.13.0-2017020701
Exploitation Mechanism
By crafting a specific build of Meterpreter, attackers can exploit the stdapi CommandDispatcher.cmd_download() function to write files to any directory on the Metasploit console.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Metasploit to version 4.13.0-2017020701 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor for any unauthorized file modifications on the Metasploit console.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and security patches to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.
- Implement access controls and restrictions to limit unauthorized file operations.
Patching and Updates
Apply security patches and updates provided by Rapid7 to ensure the latest fixes and enhancements are in place.