CVE-2013-4812 in ProCurve Manager
Summary
by MITRE
UpdateCertificatesServlet in the SNAC registration server in HP ProCurve Manager (PCM) 3.20 and 4.0, PCM+ 3.20 and 4.0, and Identity Driven Manager (IDM) 4.0 does not properly validate the fileName argument, which allows remote attackers to upload .jsp files and consequently execute arbitrary code via unspecified vectors, aka ZDI-CAN-1743.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/22/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-4812 resides within the UpdateCertificatesServlet component of HP ProCurve Manager versions 3.20 and 4.0, as well as PCM+ versions 3.20 and 4.0, and Identity Driven Manager version 4.0. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that enables remote code execution through improper input validation mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically affects the fileName argument handling within the certificate upload functionality, creating an avenue for malicious actors to escalate privileges and compromise the affected systems. The issue was catalogued under the Zero Day Initiative vulnerability database as ZDI-CAN-1743, highlighting its significance in the cybersecurity landscape.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate validation of the fileName parameter within the UpdateCertificatesServlet. When users attempt to upload certificate files through the web interface, the system fails to properly sanitize or validate the filename input, allowing attackers to manipulate the upload process. This validation failure creates a path for arbitrary file uploads, specifically permitting the upload of .jsp files which are server-side Java pages capable of executing arbitrary code on the target server. The flaw essentially bypasses the intended security controls that should restrict file uploads to legitimate certificate formats, opening the door for attackers to deploy malicious web shells or backdoors. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-434, which describes "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type" and falls under the broader category of insecure file handling practices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected systems. Once an attacker successfully uploads a malicious .jsp file, they can execute arbitrary commands on the server with the privileges of the web application, typically running as a privileged user. This access enables comprehensive system compromise including data exfiltration, lateral movement within the network, and establishment of persistent access points. The vulnerability affects organizations using HP ProCurve Manager and related products in enterprise environments where network infrastructure management systems are critical for maintaining operational security. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive network information, potentially leading to widespread compromise of network infrastructure and associated systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both the immediate security gap and implement comprehensive defensive measures. Organizations should immediately apply the vendor-provided patches or updates that correct the filename validation logic within the UpdateCertificatesServlet component. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can limit the potential impact of successful exploitation by restricting access to the affected systems. Security configurations should include disabling unnecessary file upload capabilities where possible, implementing strict file type validation, and deploying web application firewalls to monitor and filter suspicious upload attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in web application security, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar validation flaws in other components of the network infrastructure management systems.