CVE-2016-10650 in ntfserver
Summary
by MITRE
ntfserver is a Network Testing Framework Server. ntfserver downloads binary resources over HTTP, which leaves it vulnerable to MITM attacks. It may be possible to cause remote code execution (RCE) by swapping out the requested binary with an attacker controlled binary if the attacker is on the network or positioned in between the user and the remote server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/09/2020
The ntfserver vulnerability described in CVE-2016-10650 represents a critical security flaw in network testing frameworks that directly impacts the integrity of software distribution processes. This vulnerability exists within the ntfserver component of the Network Testing Framework, which is designed to facilitate network testing operations but inadvertently creates a dangerous attack vector through its implementation of binary resource downloading over unencrypted HTTP connections. The fundamental issue lies in the absence of cryptographic verification mechanisms during the download process, leaving systems exposed to man-in-the-middle attacks that can compromise the entire testing infrastructure.
The technical flaw stems from the server's reliance on HTTP protocols without implementing proper security measures such as certificate validation or content integrity checks. When ntfserver attempts to download binary resources from remote servers, it performs these operations over plain HTTP connections that are susceptible to interception and modification by malicious actors positioned within the network traffic path. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-319, which specifically addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper use of network protocols, and represents a classic example of how insecure communication channels can undermine the security of entire systems. The lack of secure transport mechanisms creates a pathway for attackers to substitute legitimate binaries with malicious counterparts, effectively compromising the integrity of the testing framework.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data interception, as it can potentially lead to remote code execution within the context of the ntfserver process. Attackers who successfully position themselves between the client and server can replace requested binaries with their own malicious code, which will then be executed when the ntfserver attempts to use these resources. This scenario creates a significant risk for organizations that rely on network testing frameworks for security assessments, as the compromised testing environment could be used to gain unauthorized access to target systems or to conduct further attacks against network infrastructure. The vulnerability particularly affects environments where network security controls are insufficient or where attackers have access to network segments between the testing client and the remote servers hosting legitimate resources.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including the mandatory use of HTTPS protocols for all binary downloads, implementation of certificate pinning mechanisms, and deployment of network monitoring tools to detect anomalous traffic patterns that might indicate MITM attacks. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage and T1566 for credential access through network sniffing, highlighting the multi-faceted nature of the threat. Additional protective measures include implementing network segmentation to limit exposure, deploying secure proxy solutions that can validate binary integrity through cryptographic hashes, and ensuring that all network testing frameworks are updated to versions that properly implement secure communication protocols. Regular security audits should verify that no unencrypted HTTP connections are being used for resource downloads, and that proper certificate validation is enforced throughout the testing infrastructure.