CVE-2018-5755 : What You Need to Know

A security flaw in the readerengine component of Open-Xchange OX App Suite versions prior to 7.6.3-rev3, 7.8.x before 7.8.2-rev4, 7.8.3 before 7.8.3-rev5, and 7.8.4 before 7.8.4-rev4 allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized access through absolute path traversal.

Understanding CVE-2018-5755

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Open-Xchange OX App Suite that could be exploited by attackers to read any file of their choice by using a complete file path in a spreadsheet formula.

What is CVE-2018-5755?

The CVE-2018-5755 vulnerability is an absolute path traversal issue in the readerengine component of Open-Xchange OX App Suite versions prior to specific releases. It enables remote attackers to access and read arbitrary files by inserting a full pathname in a formula within a spreadsheet.

The Impact of CVE-2018-5755

This vulnerability poses a significant risk as it allows unauthorized individuals to access sensitive files on the affected systems, potentially leading to data breaches and unauthorized disclosure of information.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-5755

The technical aspects of CVE-2018-5755 provide insights into the vulnerability's description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The absolute path traversal vulnerability in the readerengine component of Open-Xchange OX App Suite versions before specific releases allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files by utilizing a full pathname in a spreadsheet formula.

Affected Systems and Versions

Open-Xchange OX App Suite versions prior to 7.6.3-rev3
Open-Xchange OX App Suite 7.8.x before 7.8.2-rev4
Open-Xchange OX App Suite 7.8.3 before 7.8.3-rev5
Open-Xchange OX App Suite 7.8.4 before 7.8.4-rev4

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by remote attackers who insert a complete file path in a spreadsheet formula, enabling them to access and read any file on the system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-5755 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Open-Xchange OX App Suite to versions 7.6.3-rev3, 7.8.2-rev4, 7.8.3-rev5, or 7.8.4-rev4 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor system logs for any suspicious file access activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement access controls and restrictions to limit file access based on user roles.
Regularly audit and review file permissions to prevent unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Open-Xchange promptly to address the absolute path traversal vulnerability and enhance system security.