CVE-2015-4329 in TelePresence Video Communication Server
Summary
by MITRE
The administrator web interface in Cisco TelePresence Video Communication Server (VCS) X8.5.2 allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary OS commands via crafted HTTP requests, aka Bug ID CSCuv11796.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/12/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-4329 represents a critical command injection flaw within Cisco TelePresence Video Communication Server VCS operating in X8.5.2 version. This security weakness exists in the administrator web interface component of the VCS platform, which serves as the primary management portal for configuring and controlling video communication systems. The vulnerability specifically affects the handling of HTTP requests within the web administration interface, creating an avenue for malicious actors to exploit the system's command processing mechanisms. The flaw allows authenticated users to submit specially crafted HTTP requests that bypass normal input validation procedures, enabling them to inject and execute arbitrary operating system commands on the underlying server. This represents a significant escalation from standard authentication privileges to full system compromise, as the authenticated user can leverage this vulnerability to gain complete control over the VCS server's operating environment.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-77, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and CWE-94, which addresses improper control of generation of code. The flaw manifests when the VCS web interface processes HTTP request parameters without adequate sanitization or validation, allowing malicious command sequences to be interpreted and executed by the underlying operating system shell. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only authenticated access, meaning that an attacker who has obtained valid administrative credentials can exploit this weakness. The attack vector involves crafting HTTP requests that contain OS command injection payloads, which are then processed by the VCS server's command execution engine. This type of vulnerability enables attackers to perform actions such as executing arbitrary code, modifying system configurations, accessing sensitive data, and potentially establishing persistent access to the compromised system.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-4329 extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass complete system compromise and potential network infiltration. An attacker with access to the VCS administrator interface can leverage this vulnerability to gain root-level access to the underlying operating system, enabling them to manipulate the video communication server's core functionality. This includes the ability to modify system configurations, install malware, access stored video communications data, and potentially use the compromised VCS as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the entire Cisco TelePresence Video Communication Server platform, particularly those versions running X8.5.2, making it a widespread concern for organizations that rely on Cisco's video conferencing solutions. The impact is amplified by the fact that VCS servers typically serve as central management points for video communication systems, making them attractive targets for attackers seeking to compromise enterprise communication infrastructures.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including applying the latest security patches provided by Cisco, which address the command injection flaw in the web interface. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit administrative access to the VCS interface, reducing the attack surface for potential exploitation. The implementation of web application firewalls and input validation mechanisms can help detect and prevent malicious HTTP requests containing command injection payloads. Monitoring and logging of administrative activities within the VCS interface should be enhanced to detect anomalous command execution patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing multi-factor authentication for administrative access and regularly review user permissions to ensure that only authorized personnel have access to the vulnerable web interface. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper input validation and sanitization in web applications, as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten security guidelines, and aligns with ATT&CK techniques related to command and control operations and privilege escalation through system manipulation. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other network components and ensure comprehensive protection of enterprise communication systems.