CVE-2024-25020: Exploiting File Upload Vulnerability in IBM Cognos Controller 11.. and 11..1

In this blog post, we are going to examine the details of CVE-2024-25020, a critical vulnerability discovered in IBM Cognos Controller 11.. and 11..1 versions. This vulnerability allows an attacker to upload malicious files without any restrictions on file types in the Journal entry page, making the affected system potentially vulnerable to further attacks.

Introduction

IBM Cognos Controller is a widely used financial consolidation, reporting, and analytics solution built to optimize financial close processes. However, recently, a critical vulnerability has been discovered in the IBM Cognos Controller 11.. and 11..1 versions that leaves it open to attackers who want to exploit the systems for their gain.

Exploit Details

The vulnerability in question, CVE-2024-25020, allows an attacker to upload unrestricted file types to the Journal entry page of IBM Cognos Controller. This vulnerability can be exploited by uploading a malicious executable file, which can then be sent to victims to execute further attacks on the system. As a result, the affected systems can face significant risks of breach or compromise.

Code Snippet

To demonstrate the exploitation of this vulnerability, let's look at the following simple code snippet. It shows how an attacker can upload an executable file, like a .exe file, to the Journal entry page:

import requests

filename = "malicious_file.exe"
filedata = open(filename, "rb").read()
url = "http://target_server/ibmcognos/journal_entry";
files = {"file": (filename, filedata)}
response = requests.post(url, files=files)

if response.status_code == 200:
    print("File uploaded successfully!")
else:
    print("Failed to upload file!")

In this example, we use the popular Python HTTP library requests to send an HTTP POST request to the Journal entry page, with our malicious file attached. If the file upload is successful, it returns a message indicating the success; otherwise, it reports failure.

Original References

For detailed information about the vulnerability, please check out the official security advisory released by IBM:

- IBM Security Bulletin: IBM Cognos Controller is affected by a File Upload vulnerability (CVE-2024-25020)

It is recommended to review the advisory to understand the extent of the issue and the impact on the affected systems.

Recommendation

IBM has released a patch to address this vulnerability, and it is highly recommended that all users running IBM Cognos Controller 11.. or 11..1 upgrade to the latest version or apply the available patches to fix the issue. Additionally, organizations should regularly update their software and follow best security practices to minimize the risk of exploitation and protect their systems from potential attacks.

Conclusion

CVE-2024-25020 is a critical vulnerability affecting IBM Cognos Controller 11.. and 11..1. The unrestricted file upload feature in the Journal entry page allows attackers to upload malicious files that can execute additional attacks on the system. This detailed exploitation of the vulnerability, along with suggested recommendations, can help organizations protect their systems from potential breaches.

Remember always to keep your software up-to-date and regularly monitor your systems for any signs of suspicious activity. With prompt action and excellent security practices, we can keep our systems safe from such threats.

Timeline

Published on: 12/03/2024 18:15:12 UTC
Last modified on: 12/11/2024 03:28:15 UTC