CVE-2015-0656 in Network Analysis Module
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the login page in Cisco Network Analysis Module (NAM) allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via unspecified vectors, aka Bug ID CSCum81269.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/01/2022
The Cisco Network Analysis Module NAM vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-0656 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw that resides within the device's login page interface. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, specifically manifesting as a server-side input validation weakness that fails to properly sanitize user-supplied data. The vulnerability affects Cisco Network Analysis Module versions prior to 6.4.0.12, making it particularly concerning given the widespread deployment of NAM appliances in enterprise network monitoring environments where privileged access is frequently required.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through unspecified vectors that allow remote attackers to inject malicious web scripts or HTML content directly into the login page interface. When legitimate users authenticate to the NAM device, the malicious content gets executed within their browser context, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or redirection to malicious websites. The attack vector leverages the fact that input validation mechanisms fail to adequately filter or escape user-provided data, creating an environment where attacker-controlled content can persist and execute within the victim's browser session. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it targets the authentication interface where users typically enter sensitive credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution to encompass potential full system compromise within network monitoring environments. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to steal administrative credentials, manipulate network analysis data, or establish persistent access points within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability's presence in the login page makes it particularly attractive to threat actors as it provides a direct path to privileged access without requiring prior authentication. This risk is amplified in enterprise environments where NAM appliances serve as critical network monitoring tools and often contain sensitive network topology information, making the potential attack surface significantly broader than typical web application vulnerabilities.
Cisco addressed this vulnerability through firmware updates that implemented proper input sanitization and output encoding mechanisms for the login page interface. Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of affected NAM appliances and implement network segmentation to limit exposure. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in authentication interfaces and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 for credential harvesting through social engineering. Additional mitigations include implementing web application firewalls, monitoring for suspicious login page activity, and conducting regular security assessments of network monitoring infrastructure to identify similar vulnerabilities in other network devices that may be equally susceptible to cross-site scripting attacks.