CVE-2013-4096 in Authentication Server
Summary
by MITRE
ServerAdmin/TestTelnetConnection.jsp in DS3 Authentication Server allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in the HOST_NAME field.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/14/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-4096 affects the DS3 Authentication Server software, specifically targeting the ServerAdmin/TestTelnetConnection.jsp component. This represents a critical command injection flaw that enables authenticated remote attackers to execute arbitrary system commands on the affected server. The vulnerability resides in the improper handling of user input within the HOST_NAME field parameter, which is processed without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms. The attack vector requires an authenticated user session, making it a privilege escalation vulnerability rather than a purely remote exploit, though the implications remain severe given the potential for system compromise.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-77, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in a command. The flaw occurs when the application directly incorporates user-supplied input into system command execution without proper input validation or sanitization. When an authenticated user submits malicious shell metacharacters through the HOST_NAME field, these characters are interpreted by the underlying shell and executed with the privileges of the web application process. This creates a pathway for attackers to potentially gain full system control, execute arbitrary code, and perform actions such as file manipulation, process termination, or privilege escalation within the server environment.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-4096 extends beyond simple command execution capabilities, as it fundamentally undermines the security model of the authentication server. Attackers who have gained authenticated access can leverage this vulnerability to escalate their privileges and potentially move laterally within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the authentication server, as it allows for unauthorized system access and potential data exfiltration. From an attacker perspective, this represents a significant advantage since it requires minimal additional effort beyond obtaining legitimate credentials, and the attack can be executed through standard web-based interfaces. The vulnerability also impacts the availability of the system as attackers could potentially execute commands that disrupt service operations or consume system resources.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-4096 should focus on input validation and proper sanitization of all user-supplied data. Organizations should implement strict parameter validation for the HOST_NAME field, rejecting any input containing shell metacharacters or special characters that could be interpreted by the system shell. The recommended approach involves using allow-list validation techniques where only known safe characters are permitted in the input field, rather than attempting to filter out dangerous characters which can be bypassed. Additionally, the application should employ proper command execution methods that avoid shell interpretation entirely, such as using direct API calls or parameterized commands. Security patches should be applied immediately to address the vulnerability, and network segmentation should be implemented to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to standards such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST guidelines for preventing command injection attacks. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving command and script injection, and could enable further adversary actions including privilege escalation, persistence, and defense evasion.