CVE-2016-1450 in WebEx Meetings Server
Summary
by MITRE
Cisco WebEx Meetings Server 2.6 allows remote authenticated users to conduct command-injection attacks via vectors related to an upload's file type, aka Bug ID CSCuy92715.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/05/2022
Cisco WebEx Meetings Server version 2.6 contains a critical command injection vulnerability that affects remote authenticated users who can upload files to the system. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation during file type processing within the upload functionality, creating a pathway for malicious command execution. The flaw specifically manifests when the system fails to properly sanitize file type identifiers during the upload process, allowing attackers to inject arbitrary commands that execute with the privileges of the WebEx service account. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-77 as command injection, which represents a well-known weakness in software systems where user-supplied data is directly incorporated into system commands without proper sanitization. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious file uploads that contain command injection payloads, potentially leading to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive meeting data and user information.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple command execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the WebEx Meetings Server infrastructure. Remote authenticated users who have legitimate access to the system can leverage this flaw to escalate their privileges and execute arbitrary code on the server. The attack vector specifically targets the file upload functionality, where the system processes file type information without adequate validation mechanisms. This allows attackers to bypass normal access controls and potentially gain administrative privileges. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely heavily on WebEx for business communications, as successful exploitation could lead to data breaches, unauthorized meeting access, and potential disruption of critical business operations. The impact is particularly severe given that WebEx serves as a platform for sensitive corporate meetings and collaboration sessions.
Security professionals should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability, including network segmentation, strict input validation controls, and regular security updates. Organizations must ensure that all WebEx Meetings Server installations are updated to versions that address this command injection flaw, as Cisco has released patches to resolve the issue. The mitigation strategy should include monitoring for suspicious file upload activities and implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block command injection attempts. Additionally, administrators should configure the system to enforce strict file type validation and sanitize all user-supplied data before processing. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and script injection, representing a clear pathway for attackers to establish persistent access. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the communication infrastructure. The implementation of principle of least privilege access controls and regular audit logging can help detect unauthorized activities that may indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for patterns associated with command injection attacks targeting web applications.