CVE-2015-0763 in Unified MeetingPlace
Summary
by MITRE
Cisco Unified MeetingPlace 8.6(1.2) does not properly validate session IDs in http URLs, which allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive session information via a crafted URL, aka Bug ID CSCuu60338.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/20/2022
Cisco Unified MeetingPlace version 8.6(1.2) contains a critical session management vulnerability that stems from inadequate validation of session identifiers within HTTP URLs. This flaw represents a classic case of insufficient input validation that enables unauthorized access to sensitive session data. The vulnerability specifically affects how the system processes session IDs embedded in web requests, creating an attack vector where malicious actors can manipulate URL parameters to extract or manipulate active session information. The issue manifests when the application fails to properly sanitize or validate session identifiers passed through HTTP query strings, allowing attackers to construct crafted URLs that bypass normal authentication mechanisms and access valid session tokens.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a pattern consistent with CWE-20, which addresses improper input validation in software systems. Attackers can leverage this weakness by crafting specially formatted URLs that contain manipulated session identifiers, potentially gaining access to other users' sessions or extracting sensitive authentication tokens. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it enables session hijacking and unauthorized access to meeting resources. This type of flaw aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566, which covers credential access through social engineering and manipulation of authentication systems. The system's failure to validate session IDs creates a path for attackers to impersonate legitimate users within the Unified MeetingPlace environment.
Operationally, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations relying on Cisco Unified MeetingPlace for collaborative meetings and video conferencing. The exposure of session information could lead to unauthorized access to scheduled meetings, real-time collaboration sessions, and potentially sensitive business communications. Attackers could exploit this weakness to join confidential meetings, manipulate meeting content, or access restricted resources within the unified communications platform. The remote nature of the attack means that threat actors do not require physical access to the network or system, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in distributed work environments where remote access is common. Organizations using this software may experience unauthorized access to their collaborative infrastructure, potentially leading to data breaches or disruption of business operations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation mechanisms and session management controls. Organizations should apply the vendor-provided security patches and updates immediately, as Cisco has addressed this specific issue in subsequent releases. Network administrators should consider implementing web application firewalls to monitor and filter suspicious URL patterns, particularly those containing session identifiers. Additional protective measures include enforcing secure session handling practices, implementing proper session timeout mechanisms, and conducting regular security assessments of unified communications platforms. The vulnerability highlights the importance of robust session management protocols and proper input validation in web applications, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security testing of authentication systems and session handling mechanisms.