CVE-2011-1610 in Unified Communications Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in xmldirectorylist.jsp in the embedded Apache HTTP Server component in Cisco Unified Communications Manager (aka CUCM, formerly CallManager) 6.x before 6.1(5)su3, 7.x before 7.1(5)su4, 8.0 before 8.0(3a)su2, and 8.5 before 8.5(1)su1 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) f, (2) l, or (3) n parameter, aka Bug ID CSCtj42064.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/28/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2011-1610 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the embedded Apache HTTP Server component of Cisco Unified Communications Manager, a widely deployed enterprise communication platform. This vulnerability affects multiple versions of CUCM including 6.x series before 6.1(5)su3, 7.x series before 7.1(5)su4, 8.0 series before 8.0(3a)su2, and 8.5 series before 8.5(1)su1, making it a significant concern for organizations relying on these communication systems. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous as it exists within the embedded web server component that handles various administrative functions and directory listings, potentially exposing the entire communication infrastructure to remote exploitation.
The technical flaw manifests through three specific parameters f, l, and n in the xmldirectorylist.jsp file which are processed without proper input sanitization or validation. When these parameters are manipulated by an attacker, they can inject malicious SQL code that gets executed within the context of the database connection. This allows an unauthenticated remote attacker to bypass authentication mechanisms and execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-89, which defines SQL injection as the insertion of malicious SQL code into input fields for execution by the database, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to gain complete control over the communication infrastructure. An attacker could extract sensitive user information, modify directory entries, manipulate call routing, or even escalate privileges to system administrator levels. The embedded nature of the Apache HTTP Server within CUCM means that exploitation could potentially affect not just the web interface but also the underlying database operations, creating a vector for lateral movement within the network. Organizations using affected versions of CUCM could face significant business disruption, regulatory compliance violations, and potential financial losses due to compromised communication systems. The vulnerability's presence in multiple version streams indicates a widespread exposure that required immediate patching across various product lines.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate deployment of official Cisco patches and updates, specifically targeting the mentioned service pack versions that contain the necessary fixes. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to the affected web interface, particularly limiting access to trusted administrative networks only. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input validation measures can provide additional layers of protection. Organizations should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify any potential exploitation attempts and monitor network traffic for suspicious SQL injection patterns. Regular security updates and patch management procedures should be strengthened to prevent similar vulnerabilities from remaining unaddressed in the future, aligning with industry best practices for maintaining secure communication infrastructures.