CVE-2012-0736 in Rational AppScan
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Rational AppScan Enterprise 5.x and 8.x before 8.5.0.1 does not properly create scan jobs, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted web site.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/12/2018
IBM Rational AppScan Enterprise versions 5.x and 8.x prior to 8.5.0.1 contain a critical vulnerability in their job creation mechanism that enables remote code execution through malicious web content. This vulnerability stems from improper handling of scan job initialization processes within the application's web interface, creating a path for attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw exists in the way the software processes incoming scan job requests, particularly when handling user-supplied parameters that are not adequately validated or sanitized before being processed. This vulnerability represents a significant security risk as it allows remote attackers to leverage web-based attack vectors to gain unauthorized code execution privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a failure in input validation and sanitization within the scan job creation workflow. Attackers can craft malicious websites that, when accessed by users with administrative privileges or those who interact with the AppScan Enterprise interface, trigger the execution of arbitrary code on the target system. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the application fails to properly isolate and validate parameters used in scan job configurations, allowing malicious input to be interpreted as executable code. This type of flaw aligns with CWE-74, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in data queries, and CWE-94, which addresses the execution of arbitrary code. The attack vector operates through web-based exploitation where the malicious input is processed through the application's job creation mechanism, bypassing normal security controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, potentially allowing attackers to establish persistent access to enterprise networks through the compromised AppScan Enterprise instances. Once executed, the arbitrary code can be used to escalate privileges, install backdoors, or launch further attacks against other systems within the network perimeter. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on AppScan Enterprise for security testing, as the compromised system could be used as a launch point for broader network infiltration. From an attacker perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically the use of web shell execution, and T1190 for exploitation of remote services. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution as it can compromise the integrity of security testing processes and potentially expose sensitive organizational data.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including updating to IBM Rational AppScan Enterprise 8.5.0.1 or later versions that address this vulnerability through proper input validation and job creation procedures. Network segmentation and access controls should be enhanced to limit exposure of the AppScan Enterprise interface to untrusted networks. Regular security assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other security tools and applications. The mitigation strategy should also include monitoring for suspicious scan job creation activities and implementing web application firewalls to filter malicious requests. Additionally, organizations should consider disabling unnecessary administrative functions and implementing strict access controls for AppScan Enterprise interfaces. Compliance with security standards such as NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001 should be maintained through proper vulnerability management processes and regular security audits to ensure the protection of critical security infrastructure.