CVE-2000-0754 in OpenView Network Node Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in HP OpenView Network Node Manager (NMM) version 6.1 related to passwords.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/27/2014
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0754 affects HP OpenView Network Node Manager version 6.1, a network management platform widely used for monitoring and managing network infrastructure. This particular weakness resides in the password handling mechanisms of the software, representing a critical security flaw that could compromise the integrity of network management operations. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation and protection of authentication credentials within the NMM environment, creating potential entry points for unauthorized access to network management functions. Network administrators and security professionals who rely on HP OpenView NMM for their operational environments face significant risks when this vulnerability remains unaddressed, as it directly impacts the authentication security model of the system.
The technical implementation flaw manifests in how the software processes and validates user credentials during authentication procedures. Specifically, the password validation mechanisms fail to properly sanitize or encrypt sensitive authentication data, potentially allowing attackers to exploit weak cryptographic practices or predictable password handling routines. This vulnerability falls under the broader category of authentication bypass flaws, where the system's ability to verify user identities is compromised through improper password management. The weakness creates opportunities for credential stuffing attacks, brute force attempts, or password recovery exploitation, all of which can lead to unauthorized administrative access to the network management platform. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the privileged nature of NMM operations, which typically require elevated permissions to manage network devices and configurations.
From an operational standpoint, the exploitation of this vulnerability can result in severe consequences for organizations relying on HP OpenView NMM for their network infrastructure management. Attackers who successfully compromise the password handling mechanisms can gain unauthorized access to critical network management functions, potentially leading to network disruption, data exfiltration, or complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of network management operations, as unauthorized users can manipulate network configurations, disable monitoring functions, or access sensitive operational data. Organizations may experience significant downtime and security breaches when this vulnerability is exploited, particularly in environments where network management systems serve as central control points for critical infrastructure operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2000-0754 should focus on immediate patch deployment and enhanced authentication security measures. The most effective approach involves applying the vendor-provided security patches and updates released to address the password handling deficiencies in HP OpenView NMM version 6.1. Organizations should also implement additional security controls such as multi-factor authentication, enhanced password policies, and regular security audits of network management systems. Network segmentation and access control measures can help limit the potential impact of credential compromise by restricting access to critical network management functions. Security teams should consider implementing monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized access attempts and credential-related anomalies within their network management environments. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-259 and CWE-798 categories related to weak password handling and hard-coded credentials, and it maps to ATT&CK techniques involving credential access and privilege escalation. Regular vulnerability assessments and security awareness training for network administrators are essential components of a comprehensive defense strategy against such authentication-related threats.