CVE-2010-2703 in OpenView Network Node Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the execvp_nc function in the ov.dll module in HP OpenView Network Node Manager (OV NNM) 7.51 and 7.53, when running on Windows, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long HTTP request to webappmon.exe.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/22/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-2703 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within the HP OpenView Network Node Manager (OV NNM) software suite, specifically affecting versions 7.51 and 7.53 when deployed on Windows operating systems. This flaw resides within the ov.dll module and manifests through the execvp_nc function, creating a dangerous condition that can be exploited by remote attackers to gain unauthorized code execution capabilities. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it operates through the webappmon.exe component, which serves as the primary web application monitor for the network management system, making it an attractive target for cyber adversaries seeking to compromise network infrastructure.
The technical exploitation of this buffer overflow occurs when the execvp_nc function processes HTTP requests that exceed the allocated stack buffer size, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged to overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and executable code segments. This particular implementation flaw falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow conditions, where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to write beyond the intended buffer boundaries. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation would enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the compromised system with the privileges of the webappmon.exe process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a potential foothold for further network infiltration and lateral movement within enterprise environments where HP OpenView NNM is deployed. Network administrators and security professionals must recognize that this vulnerability affects mission-critical network monitoring infrastructure, potentially allowing attackers to disrupt network operations, steal sensitive information, or establish persistent access points within the network. The remote nature of the attack vector eliminates the need for physical access or local network presence, making it particularly dangerous for organizations with exposed web applications or those that do not properly segment their network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-2703 should prioritize immediate patching of affected HP OpenView NNM versions through official vendor updates, as HP has released security patches addressing this specific buffer overflow condition. Organizations should implement network segmentation to restrict access to webappmon.exe and related components, employing firewalls and access control lists to limit exposure to untrusted networks. Additionally, network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual HTTP request patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, while application whitelisting policies can help prevent unauthorized code execution. Security teams should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems with signatures specifically targeting this vulnerability and conduct regular vulnerability assessments to identify other potentially unpatched systems within their network infrastructure that may be similarly affected by related buffer overflow conditions.