CVE-2015-8519 in Tivoli Storage Manager Fastback
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the server in IBM Tivoli Storage Manager FastBack 5.5.x and 6.x before 6.1.12.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted command, a different vulnerability than CVE-2015-8520, CVE-2015-8521, and CVE-2015-8522.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/03/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-8519 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the server component of IBM Tivoli Storage Manager FastBack software versions 5.5.x and 6.x prior to 6.1.12.2. This security weakness resides in the processing of crafted commands that are transmitted to the server, creating an opportunity for remote attackers to gain unauthorized execution of arbitrary code on the affected system. The flaw specifically affects the server-side implementation of the FastBack storage management solution, which is designed for backup and recovery operations in enterprise environments. The vulnerability is distinct from several related issues including CVE-2015-8520, CVE-2015-8521, and CVE-2015-8522, indicating a unique code path or implementation error within the FastBack server component. This particular vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 buffer overflow category, which is classified as a critical weakness in the Common Weakness Enumeration framework and represents a fundamental flaw in memory management that allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations.
The technical exploitation of CVE-2015-8519 occurs when a remote attacker sends a specially crafted command to the FastBack server through its network interface. The server fails to properly validate the length of incoming command data, allowing an attacker to overflow the allocated buffer space and overwrite adjacent memory regions. This overflow can potentially overwrite return addresses, function pointers, or other critical control data structures, enabling the attacker to redirect program execution to malicious code. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require local access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments where such storage management systems are often exposed to external networks. The attack vector leverages the server's command processing functionality, which typically handles backup operations, storage management commands, and administrative functions, making it a prime target for exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive backup data. Organizations using affected versions of IBM Tivoli Storage Manager FastBack may face significant risks including data breaches, system downtime, and potential lateral movement within network environments where the storage management system is deployed. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of backup and recovery operations, potentially rendering the storage management system unusable or allowing attackers to manipulate backup processes to their advantage. Given that FastBack is commonly used in enterprise environments for critical data protection, the compromise of such systems can have cascading effects on business continuity and data integrity. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which covers the exploitation of remote services for code execution, making it a particularly concerning threat for organizations with inadequate network segmentation or access controls.
Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation of CVE-2015-8519 by upgrading to IBM Tivoli Storage Manager FastBack version 6.1.12.2 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the buffer overflow vulnerability. Network segmentation should be implemented to limit access to FastBack server components, particularly restricting direct network access to ports used by the server functionality. The implementation of intrusion detection systems and network monitoring can help detect potential exploitation attempts through unusual command patterns or traffic anomalies. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify any other potentially affected systems within their environment and ensure proper access controls are implemented for administrative functions. Regular security audits and patch management procedures should be strengthened to prevent similar vulnerabilities from remaining unaddressed in the future, with particular attention to the server-side components of enterprise storage management solutions. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory management practices, reinforcing the need for secure coding standards and regular security testing of critical infrastructure components.