CVE-2011-4668 in Tivoli Netcool
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Tivoli Netcool/Reporter 2.2 before 2.2.0.8 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via vectors related to an unspecified CGI program used with the Apache HTTP Server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/29/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-4668 affects IBM Tivoli Netcool/Reporter version 2.2 prior to 2.2.0.8, representing a critical security flaw that enables remote code execution through a compromised CGI program integrated with the Apache HTTP Server. This issue falls under the broader category of insecure web application development practices where CGI scripts are improperly configured or lack adequate input validation mechanisms. The vulnerability stems from the improper handling of user-supplied data within the CGI interface, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary code on the target system. The flaw specifically manifests when the Apache HTTP Server processes requests through the vulnerable CGI program, which fails to properly sanitize or validate incoming parameters that are then used in system commands or script execution contexts. This type of vulnerability represents a classic example of command injection and input validation failure that has been documented in various security frameworks and standards including CWE-77 and CWE-94, where insufficient sanitization of user inputs leads to arbitrary code execution. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it allows remote unauthenticated access to the system, eliminating the need for prior authentication or privileged access. The vulnerability is categorized under the MITRE ATT&CK framework as a remote code execution technique, specifically falling under the Tactic of Execution with techniques such as Command and Scripting Interpreter and Exploitation for Client Execution. The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution as it can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within network environments where the affected system resides. The vulnerability exists due to inadequate security controls in the web application layer, particularly in how the CGI program interfaces with the Apache HTTP Server, where user-controllable parameters are directly passed to system-level functions without proper validation or encoding. The flaw represents a fundamental weakness in the application's security architecture, where the separation between user input and system execution is insufficiently enforced. Organizations utilizing IBM Tivoli Netcool/Reporter 2.2 in environments where external network access is possible face significant risk exposure, as the vulnerability can be exploited without requiring any credentials or privileged access. The security implications are further amplified by the fact that the vulnerability affects a monitoring and reporting tool, which often runs with elevated privileges and has access to sensitive operational data. The exploitation of this vulnerability typically involves crafting malicious input parameters that are then processed by the vulnerable CGI program, leading to unintended system command execution. This type of attack vector is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where monitoring tools often serve as critical infrastructure components with broad network access and data processing capabilities. The vulnerability demonstrates a failure in the principle of least privilege and input validation, where the system assumes that all user input is safe and executable without proper sanitization checks. IBM addressed this vulnerability through patch releases, specifically version 2.2.0.8, which implemented proper input validation and sanitization measures for the affected CGI program. Organizations should prioritize patching this vulnerability as it represents a high-severity risk that can lead to complete system compromise. The mitigation strategy involves not only applying the vendor-provided patch but also implementing additional security controls such as network segmentation, web application firewalls, and regular security assessments of web applications. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in web applications, particularly when dealing with CGI interfaces and system command execution contexts. Security professionals should consider this vulnerability as part of their comprehensive vulnerability management programs, especially when assessing systems running older versions of IBM Tivoli Netcool/Reporter or similar monitoring tools that may be susceptible to similar command injection flaws. The incident underscores the critical need for continuous security monitoring and timely patch management to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities in enterprise infrastructure components. Organizations should also implement proper network access controls to limit exposure of web applications to untrusted networks and ensure that monitoring tools are properly configured with minimal required privileges to reduce potential impact if exploitation occurs. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the persistent risks associated with legacy web applications and the importance of maintaining up-to-date security measures in enterprise environments.