CVE-2023-35801 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A directory traversal vulnerability in Safe Software FME Server before 2022.2.5 allows an attacker to bypass validation when editing a network-based resource connection, resulting in the unauthorized reading and writing of arbitrary files. This CVE affects FME Flow 2023.0.

Understanding CVE-2023-35801

This section provides insights into the vulnerability and its impact and offers technical details along with mitigation and prevention strategies.

What is CVE-2023-35801?

CVE-2023-35801 is a directory traversal vulnerability in Safe Software FME Server that enables an attacker to manipulate file paths to access unauthorized directories and files. By exploiting this flaw, an attacker with write privileges on a user account can read and write arbitrary files.

The Impact of CVE-2023-35801

The vulnerability poses a significant risk as it allows threat actors to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information stored on the FME Server, potentially leading to data theft, tampering, or destruction. The exploitation of this vulnerability can compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-35801

Let's dive deeper into the specifics of the vulnerability, including the description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from insufficient validation of file paths when editing network-based resource connections in Safe Software FME Server versions before 2022.2.5, allowing attackers to traverse directories and access files beyond their authorized scope.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts Safe Software FME Server versions prior to 2022.2.5 and FME Flow 2023.0. Organizations using these versions are at risk of exploitation if not promptly addressed.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit CVE-2023-35801, an attacker needs access to a user account with write privileges on the FME Server. By manipulating file paths within network-based resource connections, the attacker can read and write files beyond their designated permissions.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting your systems from CVE-2023-35801 involves taking immediate steps to address the vulnerability and implementing long-term security practices to prevent future incidents.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Safe Software FME Server to version 2022.2.5 or newer to patch the vulnerability.
Monitor network activity for any signs of unauthorized file access.
Review user permissions and restrict write privileges to essential accounts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.
Stay informed about security advisories and updates from Safe Software to mitigate emerging threats.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of software patches and updates provided by Safe Software to address known vulnerabilities and enhance the security of your FME Server.