CVE-2011-1343 in Tivoli Netcool
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Web GUI in IBM Tivoli Netcool/OMNIbus before 7.3.0.4 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via "dynamic SQL parameters."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/06/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-1343 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Web GUI component of IBM Tivoli Netcool/OMNIbus software. This issue affects versions prior to 7.3.0.4 and exposes the system to remote code execution through maliciously crafted SQL parameters. The vulnerability specifically targets the dynamic SQL parameter handling mechanism within the web interface, creating an attack vector that allows unauthorized users to manipulate database queries and potentially gain full control over the underlying database system. The flaw resides in how the application processes user-supplied input when constructing dynamic SQL statements, failing to properly sanitize or validate the parameters before incorporating them into database operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and parameter sanitization within the web-based management interface. When users interact with the GUI and provide input that gets processed as part of SQL queries, the application fails to properly escape or parameterize these inputs. This allows attackers to inject malicious SQL fragments that can be executed within the database context. The attack typically involves crafting specific input sequences that bypass normal validation checks and inject additional SQL commands that the database will execute with the privileges of the application's database user. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-89 which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands as a fundamental weakness in application security. The vulnerability's classification aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.005 which covers application layer protocol manipulation involving SQL injection attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or modification to encompass complete system compromise. Remote attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can execute arbitrary SQL commands, potentially gaining access to sensitive operational data, modifying critical system configurations, or even escalating privileges to perform administrative functions. The affected IBM Tivoli Netcool/OMNIbus platform serves as a critical infrastructure monitoring tool for enterprise networks, making the potential compromise of such systems particularly dangerous. The vulnerability allows attackers to bypass traditional authentication mechanisms and directly access the database layer, potentially exposing the entire monitoring infrastructure to unauthorized access. Organizations relying on this platform for network operations management face significant risk of service disruption, data compromise, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-1343 require immediate implementation of the vendor-provided security patches and updates. IBM released version 7.3.0.4 and subsequent patches that address the SQL injection vulnerability through proper input validation and parameter sanitization mechanisms. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of the vulnerable web interface to untrusted networks. Additional defensive measures include implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious SQL injection attempts, conducting regular security assessments of the web interface, and monitoring database logs for suspicious activity patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation practices and proper database access controls, aligning with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous SQL execution patterns and provide alerts for potential exploitation attempts.