CVE-2011-2654 in Cloud Manager
Summary
by MITRE
The RPC implementation in the server in Novell Cloud Manager 1.1.2 before Patch 3 does not properly initialize objects, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by making RPC calls that leverage incorrect privileges associated with a partially initialized session.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/29/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-2654 resides within the Remote Procedure Call implementation of Novell Cloud Manager version 1.1.2 prior to Patch 3. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that stems from improper object initialization within the server-side RPC framework. The vulnerability manifests when the system fails to adequately initialize objects during session establishment, creating a window of opportunity for malicious actors to exploit the system through crafted RPC calls.
The technical flaw operates on the principle of incomplete object initialization, where session objects are not properly configured before being utilized in the RPC processing pipeline. This incomplete initialization allows attackers to manipulate the system state by making specially crafted RPC requests that exploit the partially initialized session context. The vulnerability specifically targets the privilege management mechanisms within the RPC implementation, where incorrect privileges are associated with sessions that have not been fully initialized. This misconfiguration enables remote attackers to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code on the target system without proper authentication or authorization.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected Novell Cloud Manager server. Remote code execution capabilities allow threat actors to install malware, modify system configurations, access sensitive data, and potentially use the compromised system as a pivot point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the cloud management platform, potentially disrupting business operations and compromising the integrity of cloud-based services managed through this system. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers can target the system from outside the network perimeter without requiring physical access or local system credentials.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-2654 should prioritize immediate application of the vendor-provided patch that addresses the object initialization flaw in the RPC implementation. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to the Novell Cloud Manager server, restrict RPC traffic to authorized networks only, and monitor for suspicious RPC activity that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security controls should include regular vulnerability assessments of cloud management platforms, implementation of network-based intrusion detection systems, and enforcement of principle of least privilege for RPC services. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-459, which describes incomplete initialization of a resource, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059 for remote code execution through legitimate system protocols. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security controls such as mandatory access controls, regular security audits, and comprehensive incident response procedures to address potential exploitation of this vulnerability and similar initialization flaws in enterprise systems.