CVE-2013-5486 in Prime Data Center Network Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in processImageSave.jsp in DCNM-SAN Server in Cisco Prime Data Center Network Manager (DCNM) before 6.2(1) allows remote attackers to write arbitrary files via the chartid parameter, aka Bug IDs CSCue77035 and CSCue77036. NOTE: this can be leveraged to execute arbitrary commands by using the JBoss autodeploy functionality.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/19/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2013-5486 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the DCNM-SAN Server component of Cisco Prime Data Center Network Manager. This vulnerability exists in the processImageSave.jsp script and affects versions prior to 6.2(1), making it a significant security risk for organizations relying on Cisco's network management infrastructure. The flaw specifically targets the chartid parameter, which is processed without adequate input validation or sanitization, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to manipulate file system operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of user-supplied input within the web application layer. When the chartid parameter is processed, the application fails to properly sanitize or restrict the directory paths that can be specified, enabling attackers to traverse the file system beyond intended boundaries. This directory traversal capability extends beyond simple file reading to include arbitrary file writing operations, which can be leveraged to place malicious files in critical system directories. The vulnerability operates at the application level and can be exploited through HTTP requests without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple file manipulation, as it can be combined with existing deployment mechanisms within the JBoss application server to achieve arbitrary code execution. Attackers can exploit the autodeploy functionality of JBoss by placing malicious deployment files in specific directories, effectively allowing them to execute arbitrary commands on the compromised system. This creates a complete compromise scenario where attackers can gain persistent access to the underlying infrastructure, potentially leading to data exfiltration, lateral movement within the network, or disruption of critical network services. The vulnerability affects the availability, integrity, and confidentiality of the entire network management system, making it a high-priority target for exploitation.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including applying the vendor-provided security patches for DCNM-SAN Server version 6.2(1) or later, which address the directory traversal vulnerability through proper input validation and parameter sanitization. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of the affected components to untrusted networks, while implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious requests containing directory traversal sequences. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous file system operations and unusual deployment patterns within the JBoss environment. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 (Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory) and can be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1059 (Command and Scripting Interpreter) and T1105 (Ingress Tool Transfer), representing a complete compromise pathway from initial exploitation to persistent access within the target environment.