CVE-2016-3639 in HANA
Summary
by MITRE
SAP HANA DB 1.00.091.00.1418659308 allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive topology information via an unspecified HTTP request, aka SAP Security Note 2176128.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/30/2019
SAP HANA Database version 1.00.091.00.1418659308 contains a vulnerability that exposes sensitive topology information through an unspecified HTTP request mechanism, as documented in SAP Security Note 2176128. This vulnerability represents a significant information disclosure risk that could enable remote attackers to gain insights into the underlying system architecture and network configuration. The flaw exists within the database's web-based management interface or HTTP handling components, where insufficient input validation or access controls permit unauthorized retrieval of system topology data. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-200 category of "Information Exposure" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1082 for System Information Discovery. The exposure of topology information can provide attackers with critical intelligence for planning subsequent attacks, including understanding network segments, database server configurations, and potential attack vectors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability likely involves improper handling of HTTP requests directed to internal management endpoints or administrative interfaces. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting specific HTTP requests that bypass normal access controls or authentication mechanisms, thereby retrieving sensitive structural information about the SAP HANA deployment. The topology information may include details about database server configurations, network layouts, component relationships, and potentially even credential structures or service endpoints. This exposure occurs without requiring authentication or specific privileges, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by any remote attacker with network access to the affected system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it significantly weakens the overall security posture of SAP HANA deployments. When attackers obtain topology information, they can better understand the internal architecture and identify potential targets for further exploitation, including other systems within the same network segment or database instances that may share similar vulnerabilities. This intelligence can facilitate more sophisticated attacks such as lateral movement, privilege escalation, or targeted exploitation of other system components. Organizations may face compliance violations if this information disclosure leads to unauthorized access to sensitive data, as it compromises the confidentiality and integrity of their database environments. The vulnerability also impacts the principle of least privilege by exposing system structure information that should remain restricted to authorized administrators.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper access controls, network segmentation, and input validation measures. Organizations should immediately apply the security patch referenced in SAP Security Note 2176128 to address the root cause of the information disclosure. Network administrators should implement firewalls and access control lists to restrict access to SAP HANA management interfaces, ensuring that only authorized personnel can reach these endpoints. Additional protective measures include enabling comprehensive logging of HTTP requests to detect anomalous access patterns, implementing web application firewalls to filter suspicious requests, and conducting regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities. The mitigation approach should align with security frameworks such as NIST SP 800-53 controls for information system security and the CWE remediation strategies for information exposure vulnerabilities. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect and alert on unusual topology information requests, as this vulnerability can serve as an initial reconnaissance step for more comprehensive attacks.