CVE-2015-0780 in ZENworks Configuration Management
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the GetReRequestData method of the GetStoredResult class in Novell ZENworks Configuration Management (ZCM) allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/08/2021
The CVE-2015-0780 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within Novell ZENworks Configuration Management, specifically within the GetReRequestData method of the GetStoredResult class. This vulnerability resides in enterprise-grade system management software that organizations rely upon for managing desktop and server environments. The flaw enables remote attackers to manipulate database queries through unspecified input vectors, potentially compromising the integrity and confidentiality of managed systems. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple data theft as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary SQL commands, effectively granting them database-level access and control over the underlying infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and parameter sanitization within the GetReRequestData method. When the GetStoredResult class processes incoming requests, it fails to properly sanitize user-supplied parameters before incorporating them into SQL query strings. This design flaw creates an environment where malicious actors can inject specially crafted SQL payloads that bypass normal authentication mechanisms. The unspecified vectors suggest that the vulnerability may manifest through multiple entry points within the application's interface, potentially including web forms, API endpoints, or direct network communications. According to CWE-89, this vulnerability maps directly to the CWE-89 category of SQL injection, which is classified as a serious weakness in software applications that handle database operations. The attack surface is further expanded by the nature of ZENworks Configuration Management, which typically operates in enterprise environments with high-value data assets and complex network architectures.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-0780 extends far beyond simple database compromise, presenting significant risks to enterprise security posture and business continuity. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to access sensitive configuration data, user credentials, system configurations, and other critical enterprise information stored within the ZENworks database. The ability to execute arbitrary SQL commands means that attackers could potentially escalate privileges, modify system configurations, create backdoor accounts, or even perform destructive operations such as data deletion or corruption. Organizations utilizing ZENworks for managing critical infrastructure components face heightened risk of supply chain attacks or lateral movement within their networks, as the compromised system could serve as a foothold for broader infiltration. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers legitimate credentials and T1046 for network service scanning, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where it could facilitate persistent access and reconnaissance activities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-0780 must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements to prevent similar vulnerabilities. Organizations should prioritize applying vendor patches and updates immediately upon release, as Novell would have provided specific fixes for this vulnerability in their security advisory. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to ZENworks management interfaces, limiting the attack surface and preventing unauthorized access to the vulnerable components. Input validation and parameterized queries should be enforced throughout the application codebase, with comprehensive testing to ensure all user inputs are properly sanitized before database interaction. The implementation of web application firewalls and database activity monitoring systems can provide additional layers of protection and early detection capabilities. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify potential vulnerabilities in similar components, while security awareness training for system administrators can help prevent social engineering attacks that might exploit this vulnerability. Organizations should also consider implementing database access controls and privilege separation to minimize the impact of successful exploitation, ensuring that database accounts used by ZENworks have the minimum necessary permissions to operate effectively.