Overview
In this post, we delve into a critical vulnerability, CVE-2024-54780, that affects Netgate pfSense CE versions prior to the 2.8.0 beta release and corresponding Plus builds. This vulnerability resides within the OpenVPN widget and can be exploited due to improper sanitization of user-supplied input to the OpenVPN management interface. The potential for system compromise or data leakage makes this an issue of high concern. As a cybersecurity expert, it is vital to understand the nature of this vulnerability, how it can be exploited, and most importantly, how it can be mitigated.
Vulnerability Summary
CVE ID: CVE-2024-54780
Severity: High (8.8 CVSS Severity Score)
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: User level
User Interaction: Required
Impact: Potential system compromise or data leakage
Affected Products
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Product | Affected Versions
Netgate pfSense CE | Versions prior to 2.8.0 beta release
Netgate pfSense Plus Builds | Corresponding versions to pfSense CE
How the Exploit Works
The vulnerability exists due to improper sanitization of user-supplied input in the OpenVPN management interface of the aforementioned products. An authenticated attacker can exploit this vulnerability by injecting arbitrary OpenVPN management commands via the ‘remipp’ parameter. This could potentially lead to system compromise or data leakage if successfully exploited.
Conceptual Example Code
The following is a conceptual example of how the vulnerability might be exploited. This is not a real exploit code, but rather a simplified demonstration of the principle behind the attack.
POST /openvpn-management HTTP/1.1
Host: target.example.com
Content-Type: application/json
Authentication: Bearer <token>
{ "remipp": "'; arbitrary_command; #" }In this example, the ‘remipp’ parameter is used to inject arbitrary commands which will be executed by the OpenVPN management interface. The semicolon is used to separate commands, and the hash symbol is used to comment out the remaining part of the original command to prevent syntax errors.
To protect your systems from this vulnerability, apply the vendor patch as soon as possible. If unable to do so immediately, use a Web Application Firewall (WAF) or Intrusion Detection System (IDS) as a temporary mitigation method until you can apply the patch.