CVE-2005-2984 in ccm console server
Summary
by MITRE
avocent ccm console server running firmware 2.1 ccm4850 allows remote authenticated attackers to bypass port restrictions by connecting to the server via ssh and using the connect command to access the serial port.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/24/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-2984 affects Avocent CCM console servers running firmware version 2.1 ccm4850, representing a significant security flaw in remote access management systems. These devices are critical components in data center infrastructure, providing secure console access to remote servers and network equipment through various protocols including SSH. The issue stems from improper access control implementation within the device's command execution framework, specifically allowing authenticated users to circumvent established port restriction policies through deliberate command injection techniques.
This vulnerability resides in the SSH-based management interface of the Avocent CCM console server, where the connect command functionality lacks proper authorization checks for accessing serial ports. The flaw enables remote authenticated attackers to execute unauthorized commands that bypass the intended access control mechanisms. When an attacker establishes an SSH session to the device and issues the connect command, they can gain access to serial ports that should otherwise be restricted based on predefined access policies. This represents a direct violation of the principle of least privilege and demonstrates a critical weakness in the device's authorization model.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, creating potential pathways for attackers to compromise entire server infrastructures. By bypassing port restrictions, attackers can access sensitive serial console connections to critical servers, potentially enabling them to execute commands, access system configurations, or perform unauthorized administrative functions. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows attackers to operate within the legitimate administrative interface while circumventing established security controls, making detection more difficult. This scenario aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078.004 for valid accounts and T1566.002 for spearphishing via social engineering, as the attacker leverages legitimate authentication to escalate privileges.
The technical implementation of this flaw demonstrates a failure in input validation and command execution controls, creating a path for privilege escalation through command injection. The device's firmware does not properly validate the target port specifications when executing the connect command, allowing attackers to specify arbitrary serial ports regardless of their assigned access permissions. This vulnerability directly relates to CWE-284, which describes improper access control, and CWE-78, which covers improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands. The issue essentially creates a backdoor within the legitimate command execution framework, allowing unauthorized access to serial console connections that should remain protected.
Organizations utilizing Avocent CCM console servers should implement immediate mitigations including firmware updates to address the identified access control flaw, along with network segmentation to limit SSH access to these devices. Additional protective measures should include implementing strict access control policies, monitoring SSH session logs for suspicious connect command usage, and establishing network-based restrictions to prevent unauthorized access to the console server management interfaces. Security teams should also consider implementing network access control lists and firewall rules that restrict SSH access to only authorized administrative workstations. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current firmware versions and conducting regular security assessments of remote management systems to prevent similar access control bypass scenarios.