CVE-2013-6366 in Hyperic HQ
Summary
by MITRE
The Groovy script console in VMware Hyperic HQ 4.6.6 allows remote authenticated administrators to execute arbitrary code via a Runtime.getRuntime().exec call.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-6366 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within VMware Hyperic HQ version 4.6.6, specifically targeting the Groovy script console functionality. This issue arises from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the administrative interface, creating a pathway for authenticated attackers to escalate their privileges and execute malicious commands on the underlying system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it requires only authentication credentials to exploit, making it accessible to any user with administrative privileges who can leverage the Groovy console for unauthorized operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability hinges on the insecure handling of user-supplied input within the Groovy scripting environment. When administrators access the script console, the application fails to properly sanitize or validate the input parameters, allowing attackers to inject malicious Groovy code that directly calls Runtime.getRuntime().exec(). This particular method invocation enables the execution of arbitrary system commands with the privileges of the Hyperic HQ service account, potentially compromising the entire system. The vulnerability falls under CWE-94, which specifically addresses "Improper Control of Generation of Code" and represents a classic code injection scenario where user input is directly executed as code without proper sanitization or context-aware escaping mechanisms.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates a severe risk landscape for organizations utilizing VMware Hyperic HQ 4.6.6, as it provides attackers with a direct pathway to system compromise. The impact extends beyond simple code execution, potentially enabling attackers to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and exfiltrate sensitive data from the monitored infrastructure. The attack surface is particularly broad given that Hyperic HQ typically operates within enterprise environments where administrative access is often granted to multiple users, increasing the likelihood of exploitation. Organizations may face compliance violations and regulatory penalties if the compromised systems contain sensitive data, as the vulnerability directly enables unauthorized access to system resources that should be protected.
The exploitation of CVE-2013-6366 aligns with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to privilege escalation and execution of malicious code. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to move laterally within the network by executing commands that may reveal additional system information, establish backdoors, or create persistence mechanisms. The vulnerability also intersects with ATT&CK techniques such as command and scripting interpreter execution, where the Groovy console serves as an execution environment for malicious payloads. Organizations should consider this vulnerability as part of a broader attack chain that could lead to complete system compromise, especially when combined with other exploitation techniques or reconnaissance activities.
Effective mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-6366 require immediate patching of VMware Hyperic HQ to version 4.6.7 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization measures for the Groovy console. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to administrative interfaces, enforce strict access controls using role-based permissions, and monitor for suspicious activities within the script console. Additional protective measures include disabling the Groovy console for non-privileged users, implementing network access controls to restrict administrative access to trusted networks, and conducting regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other enterprise management systems. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in enterprise security architecture, as it highlights how administrative interfaces can become attack vectors when not properly secured against malicious input manipulation.