CVE-2009-3849 in OpenView Network Node Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple stack-based buffer overflows in HP OpenView Network Node Manager (OV NNM) 7.01, 7.51, and 7.53 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via (1) a long Template parameter to nnmRptConfig.exe, related to the strcat function; or (2) a long Oid parameter to snmp.exe.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/06/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-3849 represents a critical security flaw in Hewlett Packard's OpenView Network Node Manager software versions 7.01, 7.51, and 7.53. This issue manifests as multiple stack-based buffer overflows that create exploitable conditions for remote code execution attacks. The vulnerability affects two distinct executables within the network management framework, specifically nnmRptConfig.exe and snmp.exe, both of which are integral components of the OV NNM system responsible for report configuration and simple network management protocol operations respectively.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the affected executables. When processing user-supplied parameters, the software fails to adequately check buffer boundaries before performing string operations. The first exploit vector involves a lengthy Template parameter passed to nnmRptConfig.exe where the strcat function is used without sufficient bounds checking, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged by attackers to overwrite stack memory. The second vector targets snmp.exe with an overly long Oid parameter, creating similar buffer overflow conditions that compromise system integrity. Both scenarios demonstrate the classic stack-based buffer overflow pattern where insufficient input length validation allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and control data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it provides remote attackers with complete system compromise capabilities. An attacker exploiting these buffer overflows could execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected service account, potentially leading to full network infrastructure control. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries do not require physical access to the target system, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where network monitoring systems are often exposed to external networks. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-121 stack-based buffer overflow and aligns with attack patterns described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1059 for command and script injection, as successful exploitation would enable attackers to execute malicious code remotely.
Security mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patch application from HP, as the vendor released security updates addressing these specific buffer overflow conditions. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to limit exposure of affected systems to untrusted networks. Additionally, input validation should be enhanced through proper bounds checking and string handling functions that prevent buffer overflows. System administrators should monitor for unusual network traffic patterns or unauthorized access attempts that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and input validation, particularly in network management applications that process external data, and serves as a reminder of the critical need for regular security assessments and vulnerability management programs that align with industry standards such as those recommended by NIST and ISO 27001 for maintaining robust cybersecurity postures.