CVE-2002-1772 in NetWare
Summary
by MITRE
Novell Netware 5.0 through 5.1 may allow local users to gain "Domain Admin" rights by logging into a Novell Directory Services (NDS) account, and executing "net use" on an NDS_ADM account that is not in the NT domain but has domain access rights, which allows the user to enter a null password.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/10/2018
This vulnerability exists within Novell Netware 5.0 through 5.1 systems where local users can escalate privileges to Domain Admin level through a specific authentication flaw in Novell Directory Services. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of NDS_ADM accounts that possess domain access rights but are not integrated into the NT domain structure. When a user logs into an NDS account and executes the net use command against an NDS_ADM account, the system allows authentication with a null password, bypassing normal security controls. This represents a critical privilege escalation vulnerability that directly violates the principle of least privilege and demonstrates poor access control implementation.
The technical flaw manifests in the authentication mechanism's failure to properly validate credentials when accessing NDS_ADM accounts through the net use command. This vulnerability is classified as a weakness in authentication and access control, aligning with CWE-287 which addresses improper authentication issues. The flaw allows unauthorized users to gain administrative privileges without proper authentication, effectively creating a backdoor into the domain administration system. The vulnerability specifically impacts the authentication process and access control mechanisms within Novell's directory services implementation, making it a significant concern for network security.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it enables local users to obtain Domain Admin rights, which provides complete control over the entire domain infrastructure. This includes the ability to modify user accounts, access sensitive data, install malicious software, and alter system configurations. Attackers could potentially use this vulnerability to establish persistent access, compromise multiple systems, and conduct lateral movement throughout the network. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires minimal privileges to exploit and provides maximum administrative access, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to gain control of network resources. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and privilege escalation through legitimate system access.
The recommended mitigations include implementing proper account management policies to ensure NDS_ADM accounts are properly secured and not accessible through unauthenticated methods. System administrators should disable unnecessary services and commands that allow null password authentication, particularly the net use functionality against domain accounts. Regular security audits should be conducted to identify and disable accounts with excessive privileges, and access controls should be reviewed to ensure proper segregation of duties. Additionally, implementing stronger authentication mechanisms and ensuring all accounts are properly integrated into the domain security model would prevent this vulnerability from being exploited. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring and alerting systems to detect unauthorized access attempts against administrative accounts, which would help in identifying potential exploitation of this vulnerability.