CVE-2016-1391 in Prime Network Analysis Module
Summary
by MITRE
Cisco Prime Network Analysis Module (NAM) before 6.1(1) patch.6.1-2-final and 6.2.x before 6.2(2) and Prime Virtual Network Analysis Module (vNAM) before 6.1(1) patch.6.1-2-final and 6.2.x before 6.2(2) allow remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary OS commands via a crafted HTTP request, aka Bug ID CSCuy21889.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/22/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-1391 affects Cisco Prime Network Analysis Module (NAM) and Prime Virtual Network Analysis Module (vNAM) versions prior to specific patch releases. This represents a critical remote code execution flaw that allows authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary operating system commands on affected devices. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the web-based management interface of these network analysis modules, creating a pathway for maliciously crafted HTTP requests to be processed without proper sanitization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a command injection flaw where user-supplied input is directly incorporated into system commands without adequate filtering or escaping mechanisms. When authenticated users submit specially crafted HTTP requests containing malicious command sequences, the system processes these inputs as part of legitimate command execution paths, thereby enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected service. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-77 which categorizes command injection flaws, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter. The flaw exists in the web application layer of the NAM and vNAM systems, specifically within the HTTP request handling components that process user input for system operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with complete control over affected network analysis modules. Once exploited, adversaries can execute arbitrary commands on the underlying operating system, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, or disruption of network monitoring capabilities. Network administrators rely on these modules for critical network analysis and troubleshooting functions, making their compromise particularly damaging. The vulnerability affects both the traditional NAM and virtualized vNAM implementations, indicating a widespread issue across Cisco's network analysis product line. Organizations using these modules for network traffic analysis, performance monitoring, and security event correlation face significant risk of unauthorized access and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-1391 primarily involve applying the vendor-supplied patches and updates for both NAM and vNAM products. Cisco released patches for versions 6.1(1) patch.6.1-2-final and 6.2(2) that address the command injection vulnerability by implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures. Network administrators should immediately upgrade to the patched versions to eliminate the risk. Additional protective measures include implementing network segmentation to limit access to these management interfaces, restricting authentication to only necessary personnel, and monitoring for suspicious HTTP request patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in web applications and highlights the critical need for regular security patch management in enterprise network infrastructure. Organizations should also consider implementing network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts and maintain comprehensive audit logs of management interface access for security monitoring purposes.