CVE-2011-0378 in Telepresence System 3000
Summary
by MITRE
The XML-RPC implementation on Cisco TelePresence endpoint devices with software 1.2.x through 1.5.x allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via a TCP request, related to a "command injection vulnerability," aka Bug ID CSCtb52587.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0378 represents a critical command injection flaw within the XML-RPC implementation of Cisco TelePresence endpoint devices. This security weakness affects specific software versions ranging from 1.2.x through 1.5.x, creating a significant attack surface for remote threat actors. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the XML-RPC processing layer, which fails to properly sanitize user-supplied data before executing system commands. This particular flaw enables unauthorized remote code execution through carefully crafted TCP requests that exploit the underlying command injection vector. The affected devices operate within enterprise communication environments where TelePresence systems are deployed for video conferencing and collaboration purposes, making them attractive targets for adversaries seeking persistent access to corporate networks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when malicious actors send specially crafted XML-RPC requests over TCP connections to the affected TelePresence endpoints. These requests contain malicious command sequences that bypass normal input validation checks and are subsequently executed by the device's underlying operating system. The command injection vulnerability specifically relates to CWE-77, which classifies improper neutralization of special elements used in commands, allowing attackers to inject and execute arbitrary system commands with the privileges of the affected service. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication, enabling attackers to gain full control over the device's operating system and potentially use it as a foothold for further network infiltration.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-0378 extends beyond immediate device compromise to encompass broader enterprise security implications. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can execute commands with elevated privileges, potentially gaining access to sensitive network resources, intercepting communications, or using the compromised device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the network perimeter. The TelePresence endpoint devices typically operate in trusted network segments, making them valuable assets for attackers seeking to establish persistent presence within corporate environments. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter, and T1071.004, which addresses application layer protocol. The remote execution capability means that adversaries can maintain long-term access to the compromised devices, enabling them to conduct reconnaissance, data exfiltration, or deploy additional malware payloads over extended periods.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of firmware updates from Cisco, specifically targeting the software versions affected by this command injection flaw. Organizations should implement network segmentation to isolate TelePresence devices from critical network segments and deploy intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious TCP traffic patterns associated with XML-RPC requests. Network administrators should also consider disabling unnecessary XML-RPC services when they are not actively required for legitimate operations, as recommended by the NIST Cybersecurity Framework. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and input validation, particularly in network services that process external data. Organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of affected TelePresence devices within their infrastructure and implement monitoring procedures to detect potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, security teams should establish incident response procedures specifically addressing remote code execution vulnerabilities in networked endpoint devices to ensure rapid response capabilities when such threats are detected.