Example of Path Traversal Attack

Consider a web application that retrieves a file based on user input:

<?php $file = $_GET['filename']; include("uploads/" . $file); ?>

If an attacker enters the following value as the filename parameter:

../../etc/passwd

This could traverse directories, allowing access to sensitive system files like /etc/passwd, which should remain restricted.

How to Mitigate Path Traversal Attacks

• Input Validation: Ensure that only expected inputs are allowed.
• Realpath Function: Use functions like realpath() to convert relative paths to absolute ones, ensuring they remain within authorized directories.
• Web Application Firewall (WAF): Use WAFs to detect and block path traversal attempts.

What is Kingsoft WPS Office?

Kingsoft WPS Office is an office productivity suite similar to Microsoft Office, offering tools like WPS Writer, WPS Spreadsheets, and WPS Presentation. It is widely used across platforms such as Windows, macOS, and Android due to its compatibility with Microsoft Office formats (.docx, .xlsx, .pptx) and its free or low-cost versions.

Popular Features of Kingsoft WPS Office

• Full compatibility with Microsoft Office file formats.
• Multi-platform availability: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
• Free version with core features, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

The CVE-2024-7262 Vulnerability

CVE-2024-7262 is a path traversal vulnerability identified in Kingsoft WPS Office on Windows. It affects versions from 12.2.0.13110 to 12.2.0.16412. The flaw exists within the promecefpluginhost.exe component, which allows an attacker to load arbitrary Windows libraries.

The vulnerability is particularly dangerous as it has been weaponized in the form of a single-click exploit, often delivered via a deceptive spreadsheet document. Once clicked, this exploit enables attackers to load a malicious library, which can lead to severe consequences such as unauthorized system access or remote code execution.

Mitigation and CISA Recommendations

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has added CVE-2024-7262 to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities Catalog. CISA recommends applying mitigations according to vendor instructions. If patches are unavailable, discontinuing the use of affected versions of Kingsoft WPS Office is strongly advised.

Conclusion

Path Traversal Vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-7262 are serious security risks that can compromise entire systems. It’s crucial to keep software updated and follow best practices such as proper input validation to prevent attackers from exploiting these weaknesses. Businesses using Kingsoft WPS Office should apply the recommended patches or consider alternative solutions to safeguard their systems.

Glossary

Path Traversal Vulnerability

A security flaw that allows attackers to manipulate file paths to access restricted files and directories outside the intended scope of the application.

promecefpluginhost.exe

A component of Kingsoft WPS Office, vulnerable to path traversal attacks in certain versions, allowing arbitrary library loading.

WPS Office

A popular office productivity suite developed by Kingsoft, compatible with Microsoft Office file formats.

CISA

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, responsible for advising on critical security vulnerabilities and mitigation strategies.