CVE-2002-0452 in ServerIron
Summary
by MITRE
Foundry Networks ServerIron switches do not decode URIs when applying "url-map" rules, which could make it easier for attackers to cause the switch to forward traffic to a different server than intended and exploit vulnerabilities that would otherwise be inaccessible.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/07/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0452 affects Foundry Networks ServerIron switches, representing a significant security flaw in application layer processing that undermines the intended network traffic management capabilities. This issue stems from the switch's failure to properly decode uniform resource identifiers when executing url-map rules, creating a fundamental gap in how the device handles web traffic routing. The vulnerability operates at the intersection of network infrastructure and web application security, where the switch's inability to correctly interpret encoded URI sequences creates opportunities for malicious traffic manipulation. The flaw is particularly concerning because it directly impacts the switch's core function of load balancing and traffic distribution, potentially allowing unauthorized access to systems that should remain protected by the intended routing policies.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the difference between encoded and decoded URI formats within HTTP requests, where the switch processes url-map rules against raw encoded strings rather than properly decoded versions. This creates a scenario where attackers can craft malicious requests containing encoded characters that, when processed by the switch, result in unintended server routing decisions. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the switch encounters URI sequences that require decoding before applying routing rules, such as percent-encoded characters representing special URL components. This behavior violates the expected protocol handling standards and creates a pathway for attackers to bypass intended access controls through carefully constructed URI sequences that appear legitimate to the switch's rule processing engine.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple traffic redirection, potentially enabling attackers to access backend systems that should be protected by the switch's routing policies. When an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they can cause the switch to forward traffic to unintended destinations, potentially routing sensitive requests to servers that lack proper security controls or are otherwise restricted from direct access. This creates a vector for privilege escalation attacks, where an attacker might gain access to internal systems or services that would normally be protected by the switch's intended routing logic. The vulnerability essentially undermines the network's ability to enforce proper access controls and load balancing policies, potentially exposing internal resources to unauthorized access.
Security practitioners should implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies to address this vulnerability, beginning with immediate firmware updates from Foundry Networks to correct the URI decoding implementation. Network administrators must also consider implementing additional access control measures such as web application firewalls that can detect and block malformed URI sequences before they reach the switch infrastructure. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-119, which addresses weaknesses in memory handling, and can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation. Organizations should also conduct thorough network traffic analysis to identify any potential exploitation attempts and implement monitoring for unusual routing patterns that might indicate successful exploitation of this vulnerability. The recommended approach includes regular security assessments of network infrastructure components to ensure proper handling of encoded URI sequences and maintain the integrity of traffic routing policies.