CVE-2015-7271 in iDRAC7
Summary
by MITRE
Dell Integrated Remote Access Controller (iDRAC) 7/8 before 2.21.21.21 has a format string issue in racadm getsystinfo.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/03/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-7271 affects Dell Integrated Remote Access Controller versions 7 and 8 prior to 221.21.21.21, specifically within the racadm getsystinfo command functionality. This represents a critical security flaw that enables malicious actors to exploit improper input validation mechanisms within the remote management interface. The issue manifests as a format string vulnerability that occurs when the system processes user-supplied input without adequate sanitization, creating an avenue for arbitrary code execution and system compromise. Such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous in remote management contexts where privileged access controls are expected to maintain system integrity and security boundaries.
The technical flaw stems from improper handling of format specifiers within the racadm command implementation, allowing attackers to inject malicious format strings that can manipulate the program's execution flow. This vulnerability falls under CWE-134 which specifically addresses the use of format strings with user-supplied data without proper validation or sanitization. When an attacker crafts malicious input containing format specifiers such as %x, %s, or %n, the application processes these without proper bounds checking, potentially leading to memory corruption, information disclosure, or arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects the iDRAC management interface which typically operates with elevated privileges and provides direct access to system configuration and monitoring functions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass complete system compromise and unauthorized administrative access. Attackers can leverage this flaw to gain persistent access to server management interfaces, potentially leading to data breaches, system infiltration, and lateral movement within network environments. The remote nature of this vulnerability means that exploitation can occur from any location without requiring physical access to the target systems, making it particularly attractive to threat actors. According to ATT&CK framework category T1077, this vulnerability enables privilege escalation and persistence mechanisms through legitimate system tools, while T1110 covers credential access and system compromise activities that can result from successful exploitation.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate patching of affected iDRAC firmware versions to 2.21.21.21 or later releases, which contain the necessary fixes for the format string vulnerability. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to iDRAC management interfaces, restrict remote access to only necessary administrative personnel, and employ network monitoring solutions to detect anomalous traffic patterns associated with exploitation attempts. Additional defensive measures include disabling unnecessary remote management services, implementing strong authentication mechanisms, and conducting regular security assessments of remote management interfaces. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation in security-critical applications and highlights the necessity for regular firmware updates and security patch management programs to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities in enterprise infrastructure components.