CVE-2024-13982 is a path traversal vulnerability classified under CWE-22 affecting the SPON IP Network Broadcast System, a digital audio transmission platform developed by Changsha SPON Communication Technology Co. Ltd. The vulnerability exists in the rj_get_token.php endpoint, specifically in the handling of the jsondata[url] parameter. Due to insufficient input validation, an attacker can craft a POST request that manipulates the pathname to traverse directories outside the intended restricted directory. This arbitrary file read flaw enables an unauthenticated remote attacker to access sensitive files on the server, including configuration files, credential stores, or internal application logic, which could facilitate further attacks or data exfiltration. The vulnerability affects all versions of the product, as no specific affected version range is defined. The CVSS 4.0 vector indicates the attack requires no privileges, no user interaction, and can be performed remotely with low attack complexity, resulting in a high confidentiality impact. No patches or fixes have been published yet, and no known exploits have been observed in the wild, though the high severity and ease of exploitation make it a significant threat. The lack of authentication requirement and the nature of the broadcast system, which may be deployed in critical communication infrastructures, elevate the risk profile of this vulnerability.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-13982 can be substantial, especially those relying on the SPON IP Network Broadcast System for digital audio transmission in critical communication environments such as media, emergency services, or corporate communications. The arbitrary file read capability can lead to exposure of sensitive internal data, including system configurations and credentials, potentially enabling attackers to escalate privileges or pivot within the network. This could result in data breaches, disruption of broadcast services, or compromise of other connected systems. Given the unauthenticated nature of the exploit, attackers can remotely target vulnerable systems without prior access, increasing the attack surface. The confidentiality breach could also violate GDPR and other data protection regulations, leading to legal and financial repercussions. Additionally, the exposure of internal logic or credentials may facilitate subsequent attacks such as ransomware or espionage campaigns targeting European entities.

Since no official patches are currently available, European organizations should implement immediate compensating controls. These include deploying web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block directory traversal patterns in POST requests to the rj_get_token.php endpoint, especially targeting the jsondata[url] parameter. Network segmentation should isolate the broadcast system from less trusted networks to limit exposure. Organizations should conduct thorough audits of their SPON IP Network Broadcast System deployments to identify affected instances and monitor logs for suspicious access attempts. Input validation can be enforced at reverse proxies or API gateways to sanitize incoming requests. Additionally, restricting file system permissions to minimize accessible files by the web server process can reduce the impact of arbitrary file reads. Organizations should engage with the vendor for updates and patches and prepare to apply them promptly once available. Finally, incident response plans should be updated to address potential exploitation scenarios involving this vulnerability.