CVE-2009-4176 in OpenView Network Node Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple heap-based buffer overflows in ovsessionmgr.exe in HP OpenView Network Node Manager (OV NNM) 7.01, 7.51, and 7.53 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long (1) userid or (2) passwd parameter to ovlogin.exe.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/28/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-4176 represents a critical heap-based buffer overflow in HP OpenView Network Node Manager's session management component. This flaw exists within the ovsessionmgr.exe process and affects multiple versions including 7.01, 7.51, and 7.53 of the network management software. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before processing, creating opportunities for malicious actors to exploit memory corruption vulnerabilities. The specific attack vectors involve sending overly long userid or passwd parameters to the ovlogin.exe component, which serves as the primary authentication interface for the system.
From a technical perspective, this vulnerability operates as a classic heap-based buffer overflow where attacker-controlled data exceeds the allocated memory buffer size in the ovsessionmgr.exe process. The flaw allows remote code execution because the application does not perform proper bounds checking on input parameters, enabling attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and function pointers. This type of vulnerability is categorized under CWE-121 as heap-based buffer overflow, which falls within the broader category of memory safety issues that have been consistently identified as high-risk in cybersecurity assessments. The attack can be executed remotely without authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by anyone with network access to the affected system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential network infiltration. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to network management functions, potentially leading to unauthorized network monitoring, data exfiltration, or further lateral movement within the network infrastructure. Given that HP OpenView Network Node Manager is commonly deployed in enterprise environments for critical network monitoring, the compromise of such a system could result in significant operational disruption and security breaches. The vulnerability affects systems where the application is accessible over the network, making it particularly dangerous in unsecured network environments where the application may be exposed to external attackers.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should include immediate patch application from HP as the primary defense mechanism, as the vendor would have released specific security updates addressing the buffer overflow conditions. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to restrict access to the affected application, particularly limiting network exposure to trusted internal networks only. Additionally, implementing intrusion detection systems with signature-based detection for known exploit patterns related to this vulnerability would provide additional layers of defense. Organizations should also consider monitoring for unusual authentication attempts or parameter values that might indicate exploitation attempts. The ATT&CK framework would classify this vulnerability under T1203 as Exploitation for Client Execution, with potential for T1078 for Valid Accounts and T1566 for Credential Access, making comprehensive monitoring and access control essential for defense in depth strategies. Regular vulnerability assessments and security audits should be conducted to identify similar memory corruption vulnerabilities in legacy network management systems that may not receive ongoing support.