CVE-2017-14198
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability allows authenticated users with design asset editing permissions in Squiz Matrix to execute arbitrary code remotely through a malicious time_format tag. It affects Squiz Matrix versions before 5.3.6.1 and 5.4.x before 5.4.1.3. Attackers can gain full control of affected systems if they have valid credentials and appropriate permissions.
💻 Affected Systems
- Squiz Matrix CMS
📦 What is this software?
Matrix by Squiz
Matrix by Squiz
Matrix by Squiz
Matrix by Squiz
Matrix by Squiz
Matrix by Squiz
Matrix by Squiz
Matrix by Squiz
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete system compromise allowing attackers to execute arbitrary commands, steal data, install malware, pivot to other systems, and maintain persistent access.
Likely Case
Authenticated attackers with design editing privileges gain remote code execution, potentially leading to data theft, website defacement, or lateral movement within the network.
If Mitigated
With proper access controls and network segmentation, impact is limited to the affected Squiz Matrix instance, though data within that system remains at risk.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires valid credentials and design editing permissions. Public proof-of-concept demonstrates the vulnerability, making weaponization likely.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: 5.3.6.1 or 5.4.1.3
Vendor Advisory: https://www.squiz.net/security-advisories
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Backup your Squiz Matrix installation and database. 2. Download the patched version (5.3.6.1 for 5.3.x or 5.4.1.3 for 5.4.x). 3. Follow Squiz Matrix upgrade procedures. 4. Restart the application server. 5. Verify the upgrade was successful.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Restrict Design Editing Permissions
allTemporarily remove design asset editing permissions from non-essential users until patching can be completed.
Network Segmentation
allIsolate Squiz Matrix servers from critical network segments and implement strict firewall rules.
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement strict access controls and review all user accounts with design editing permissions
- Deploy web application firewall (WAF) rules to block suspicious time_format tag patterns
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check Squiz Matrix version in admin interface or by examining version files in installation directory.Check Version:
Check admin dashboard or examine /path/to/squiz/version.txt fileVerify Fix Applied:
Verify version is 5.3.6.1 or higher for 5.3.x branch, or 5.4.1.3 or higher for 5.4.x branch.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual time_format tag modifications in design assets
- Suspicious PHP/system command execution in application logs
- Multiple failed authentication attempts followed by successful login and design edits
Network Indicators:
- Unexpected outbound connections from Squiz Matrix server
- Traffic to known malicious IPs or domains
SIEM Query:
source="squiz-logs" AND ("time_format" OR "design_edit" OR "remote_code")