CVE-2008-5709 in Communication Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple unspecified vulnerabilities in the web management interface in Avaya Communication Manager (CM) 3.1 before 3.1.4 SP2, 4.0 before 4.0.3 SP1, and 5.0 before 5.0 SP3 allow remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code via unknown attack vectors in the (1) Set Static Routes and (2) Backup History components.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/30/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5709 represents a critical security flaw within the web management interface of Avaya Communication Manager versions 3.1 through 5.0, specifically affecting releases prior to the respective service pack updates. This issue affects enterprise communication infrastructure systems that rely on Avaya's CM platform for voice and data network management, creating potential entry points for malicious actors targeting telecommunications networks. The vulnerability resides within two distinct components of the web interface: the Set Static Routes functionality and the Backup History module, both of which are critical administrative functions that handle network configuration and system backup operations.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from unspecified attack vectors that enable authenticated remote users to execute arbitrary code on the affected systems. This represents a privilege escalation scenario where users who already possess legitimate authentication credentials can leverage the flaw to gain elevated system privileges and execute malicious commands beyond their normal administrative boundaries. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code" or "Code Injection" where untrusted data is used to construct code that is then executed. The attack vectors likely involve input validation failures or improper sanitization of user-supplied data within the web interface components, allowing attackers to inject malicious payloads that get processed as executable code.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-5709 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can compromise the entire communication infrastructure managed by Avaya CM systems. Remote attackers with valid credentials can potentially gain full system control, modify network routing configurations, access sensitive backup data, or disrupt communication services that organizations depend upon for business continuity. The attack surface is particularly concerning because these components are typically accessible through standard web browsers, making exploitation relatively straightforward for attackers who have already obtained legitimate authentication credentials through phishing, credential theft, or other means. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and availability of telecommunications networks, potentially leading to service outages or data breaches that could affect thousands of users within enterprise environments.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the vendor-provided patches for Avaya Communication Manager versions 3.1.4 SP2, 4.0.3 SP1, and 5.0 SP3, which address the underlying code execution flaws in the affected components. Network segmentation should be implemented to limit access to the web management interface, ensuring that only authorized personnel can reach these administrative functions. Additionally, implementing multi-factor authentication and strict access control policies can help reduce the risk of unauthorized exploitation even if credentials are compromised. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1059, "Command and Scripting Interpreter," where adversaries execute malicious code through legitimate system interfaces. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring to detect anomalous behavior patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly around the Set Static Routes and Backup History components where the vulnerabilities are known to exist.