CVE-2011-0276 in OpenView Performance Insight
Summary
by MITRE
HP OpenView Performance Insight Server 5.2, 5.3, 5.31, 5.4, and 5.41 contains a "hidden account" in the com.trinagy.security.XMLUserManager Java class, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via the doPost method in the com.trinagy.servlet.HelpManagerServlet class.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/31/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0276 represents a critical security flaw in HP OpenView Performance Insight Server versions 5.2 through 5.41, where a hidden account mechanism exists within the com.trinagy.security.XMLUserManager Java class. This hidden account functionality creates an unauthorized access vector that bypasses normal authentication procedures and provides attackers with elevated privileges. The vulnerability specifically leverages the doPost method within the com.trinagy.servlet.HelpManagerServlet class to facilitate remote code execution, making it particularly dangerous for networked environments where the application is exposed to untrusted networks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper access control mechanisms within the application's authentication framework. The hidden account exists as a hardcoded credential within the XMLUserManager class, which operates outside the normal user management procedures and authentication flow. This design flaw allows attackers to exploit the HelpManagerServlet's doPost method without proper authentication, effectively granting them administrative privileges. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-255 - Credentials Management, specifically addressing weaknesses in credential handling and authentication processes. The attack vector requires remote access to the application's web interface, making it particularly concerning for systems that are exposed to the internet or corporate networks without proper network segmentation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it enables complete system compromise through remote code execution capabilities. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability can execute arbitrary code on the affected server, potentially leading to data breaches, system infiltration, and further lateral movement within the network. The hidden account mechanism essentially provides a backdoor that bypasses all normal security controls, making it extremely difficult to detect through standard monitoring procedures. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 - Valid Accounts, as it leverages legitimate but unauthorized credentials to gain system access. Organizations using HP OpenView Performance Insight Server in production environments face significant risk of compromise, particularly if the application is accessible from external networks without proper firewall restrictions or network segmentation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-0276 require immediate remediation through official HP security patches and updates. System administrators should apply the latest security patches released by HP to address the hidden account implementation and strengthen authentication mechanisms. Network segmentation should be implemented to restrict access to the Performance Insight Server to only authorized personnel and systems. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough security assessments to identify any potential exploitation attempts and implement monitoring solutions that can detect unusual authentication patterns or access attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper credential management and access control implementation, aligning with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001 standards for information security management. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar hidden account mechanisms or other authentication bypass vulnerabilities within the organization's IT infrastructure.