CVE-2011-0384 in TelePresence Multipoint Switch
Summary
by MITRE
The Java Servlet framework on Cisco TelePresence Multipoint Switch (CTMS) devices with software 1.0.x, 1.1.x, 1.5.x, and 1.6.x does not require administrative authentication for unspecified actions, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted request, aka Bug ID CSCtf01253.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/01/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0384 affects the Java Servlet framework implementation within Cisco TelePresence Multipoint Switch devices operating on software versions 1.0.x through 1.6.x. This represents a critical security flaw that undermines the authentication mechanisms designed to protect administrative functions within these networked communication devices. The affected CTMS appliances serve as central coordination points for multipoint video conferencing sessions, making them attractive targets for malicious actors seeking to compromise enterprise communication infrastructures.
The technical flaw stems from insufficient authentication requirements within the Java Servlet framework component that processes administrative requests. Specifically, the system fails to enforce proper administrative credentials for certain operations, allowing unauthenticated remote attackers to submit crafted HTTP requests that execute arbitrary code on the target device. This authentication bypass vulnerability operates at the application layer and leverages the inherent trust placed in the servlet framework to process administrative functions without verifying the identity of the requesting user.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. Remote attackers can exploit this weakness to gain unauthorized administrative access to the CTMS devices, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Once compromised, attackers can manipulate video conferencing sessions, redirect traffic, install malicious software, or use the device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the network. The vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where these devices are deployed, as they often form part of critical communication infrastructures that require robust security controls. The lack of authentication requirements for unspecified actions means that the exact scope of vulnerable operations remains partially unclear, but the potential for arbitrary code execution represents a fundamental breach of system integrity.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues in software systems, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1078 for valid accounts and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the latest security patches from Cisco, restricting network access to these devices through firewalls, and implementing network segmentation to limit potential attack vectors. Additionally, monitoring for suspicious HTTP requests and implementing intrusion detection systems can help identify exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper authentication controls in networked devices and highlights the risks associated with legacy software versions that may not receive continued security updates.