CVE-2012-10048 in Zenoss
Summary
by MITRE • 08/08/2025
Zenoss Core 3.x contains a command injection vulnerability in the showDaemonXMLConfig endpoint. The daemon parameter is passed directly to a Popen() call in ZenossInfo.py without proper sanitation, allowing authenticated users to execute arbitrary commands on the server as the zenoss user.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/09/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-10048 represents a critical command injection flaw within Zenoss Core 3.x versions that exposes the system to unauthorized command execution. This vulnerability exists within the showDaemonXMLConfig endpoint where user-supplied input is directly processed without adequate sanitization measures. The specific technical weakness occurs in the ZenossInfo.py file where the daemon parameter is passed directly to a Popen() system call, creating an environment where malicious input can be interpreted as shell commands rather than benign data. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-77 which specifically addresses command injection flaws in software applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it allows authenticated users to execute arbitrary commands on the affected server with the privileges of the zenoss user account. This creates a significant escalation path for attackers who can leverage the vulnerability to gain persistent access to the system, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the entire Zenoss monitoring environment since the attacker can manipulate system configurations, extract sensitive data, or install backdoors. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically shell commands, and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires only authenticated access to the Zenoss system, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by insiders or attackers who have obtained valid credentials. The lack of input sanitization means that any command injection payload can be executed directly through the daemon parameter, potentially allowing attackers to perform reconnaissance, establish persistence, or escalate privileges further within the network. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and the principle of least privilege in system design. The vulnerability also highlights the need for proper secure coding practices, specifically in how system calls are handled with user-provided data. Organizations using Zenoss Core 3.x should immediately implement mitigations including input validation, privilege separation, and application-level restrictions to prevent unauthorized command execution. The vulnerability serves as a prime example of why regular security assessments and code reviews are essential for identifying and remedying such critical flaws in monitoring and management systems.
This vulnerability represents a classic example of unsafe use of system calls in application code and underscores the importance of following secure coding guidelines. The absence of proper input sanitization creates an attack surface that can be exploited to achieve arbitrary code execution, making this a critical security concern for any organization relying on Zenoss Core for system monitoring and management.