CVE-2016-2942 in UrbanCode Deploy
Summary
by MITRE
IBM UrbanCode Deploy could allow an authenticated attacker with special permissions to craft a script on the server in a way that will cause processes to run on a remote UCD agent machine.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/02/2017
IBM UrbanCode Deploy represents a comprehensive application deployment and release management platform that facilitates automated software delivery processes across enterprise environments. The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-2942 specifically targets the server-side script execution capabilities within this platform, creating a path for authenticated attackers to manipulate system behavior through carefully crafted scripts. This weakness resides in the platform's handling of script execution permissions and validation mechanisms, particularly when dealing with remote agent communications and process initiation.
The technical flaw manifests when an authenticated user with specific administrative privileges crafts malicious scripts that can be executed on remote UCD agent machines. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and inadequate permission controls within the server-side script processing framework. Attackers can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary commands on remote agent systems, effectively extending their attack surface beyond the initial server compromise. The vulnerability operates through a privilege escalation vector that allows users with limited access to gain broader system control, particularly targeting the agent communication protocols that enable distributed deployment operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple unauthorized script execution, creating significant risks for enterprise deployment environments that rely heavily on distributed agent architectures. An attacker could potentially gain access to sensitive deployment information, manipulate ongoing deployment processes, or even establish persistent access points within the deployment infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the entire deployment pipeline, as it allows attackers to influence how applications are deployed across multiple systems. This represents a critical compromise of the deployment automation framework, potentially enabling attackers to disrupt business operations or gain unauthorized access to production environments.
Security professionals should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability, beginning with strict access control enforcement and comprehensive audit logging of script execution activities. The platform should be configured to enforce least privilege principles for script creation and execution, ensuring that only authorized personnel can create or modify deployment scripts that target remote agents. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict communication between server and agent components, limiting potential attack vectors. Additionally, regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify any unauthorized script modifications or suspicious execution patterns within the deployment environment. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-78 and CWE-79 categories related to command injection and cross-site scripting, while also mapping to ATT&CK techniques involving privilege escalation and execution through legitimate system processes. Organizations should prioritize patch management and access control reviews to address this vulnerability effectively.