CVE-2024-41713 identifies a critical security vulnerability in the NuPoint Unified Messaging (NPM) component of Mitel MiCollab software versions through 9.8 SP1 FP2 (9.8.1.201). The flaw stems from insufficient input validation that enables an unauthenticated attacker to perform a path traversal attack. Path traversal vulnerabilities allow attackers to manipulate file path inputs to access files and directories outside the intended scope, bypassing security controls. In this case, the attacker can gain unauthorized access to sensitive user data and system configuration files, potentially leading to data disclosure, corruption, or deletion. The vulnerability does not require any authentication or user interaction, making exploitation straightforward if the vulnerable service is exposed. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.1 reflects the high confidentiality and integrity impact, combined with low attack complexity and no privileges required. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the severity and ease of exploitation make this a critical threat. Mitel MiCollab is widely used in enterprise unified communications, integrating telephony, messaging, and collaboration tools, making this vulnerability particularly impactful for organizations relying on these services for daily operations. The CWE-22 classification confirms the root cause as a path traversal issue. No patches are currently linked, indicating the need for vigilance and interim mitigations until official fixes are released.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-41713 can be severe. Mitel MiCollab is commonly deployed in enterprises, government agencies, and critical infrastructure sectors for unified communications. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive communications data, disruption of messaging services, and potential manipulation or deletion of system configurations, undermining operational integrity. This could result in loss of confidentiality of private communications, damage to organizational reputation, regulatory non-compliance (especially under GDPR), and operational downtime. The unauthenticated nature of the vulnerability increases the risk of external attackers, including cybercriminals and state-sponsored actors, targeting exposed systems. Given the reliance on unified messaging for internal and external communications, the disruption could affect business continuity and critical decision-making processes. Additionally, compromised systems could serve as footholds for further lateral movement within networks, escalating the threat landscape for affected organizations.

1. Monitor Mitel’s official channels closely for patches addressing CVE-2024-41713 and apply them immediately upon release. 2. Until patches are available, restrict network exposure of the NuPoint Unified Messaging component by implementing strict firewall rules and network segmentation to limit access only to trusted internal users. 3. Employ intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS) to monitor for unusual file access patterns or path traversal attempts targeting the MiCollab environment. 4. Conduct thorough audits of file system permissions and configurations to minimize the impact of unauthorized access. 5. Implement application-layer gateways or web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block path traversal payloads. 6. Educate IT and security teams about the vulnerability to ensure rapid incident response capability. 7. Regularly back up critical configuration and user data to enable recovery in case of data corruption or deletion. 8. Limit administrative privileges and enforce the principle of least privilege to reduce potential damage from exploitation.