CVE-2016-4386 in Network Automation
Summary
by MITRE
HPE Network Automation Software 10.10 allows local users to write to arbitrary files via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/29/2019
HPE Network Automation Software version 10.10 contains a critical local privilege escalation vulnerability that enables authenticated users to write to arbitrary files within the system. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and file access controls within the software's file handling mechanisms. The unspecified vectors suggest that multiple pathways exist for exploitation, potentially involving file creation, modification, or overwrite operations that bypass normal security boundaries. The flaw exists at the operating system level where the application fails to properly validate file paths or enforce proper access controls during file operations, creating a dangerous condition where local users can manipulate system files without proper authorization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's failure to sanitize user inputs when processing file operations, allowing malicious file paths to be constructed and executed. Attackers can exploit this by crafting specific file access requests that target system directories or critical configuration files. The vulnerability is classified as a local privilege escalation issue, meaning that an attacker must already have a valid account on the system but does not require elevated privileges to exploit the flaw. This represents a significant security weakness as it allows lateral movement and potential system compromise through file manipulation attacks. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, and CWE-73, which covers external control of file name or path, both of which are fundamental file system security principles that have been violated in this implementation.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-4386 extends beyond simple file manipulation as it provides attackers with persistent access to system resources and potential escalation to system administrator privileges. Local users who can exploit this vulnerability can modify critical system files, install malicious software, or corrupt system configurations that could lead to complete system compromise. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability affects network automation software, which typically operates with elevated privileges to manage network infrastructure. This creates a scenario where an attacker could gain control over network devices and potentially disrupt network operations. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and script interpreter usage, as attackers may leverage the file manipulation capabilities to execute malicious code or establish persistence within the network automation environment.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the affected HPE Network Automation Software version 10.10 to address the underlying file access control flaws. Organizations should implement strict file access controls and ensure that the application operates with the principle of least privilege, limiting file system access to only necessary directories. Network segmentation and monitoring should be implemented to detect unauthorized file access attempts, particularly in network automation environments where system integrity is paramount. System administrators should conduct regular audits of file permissions and access logs to identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of input validation and proper file path handling in application security design, emphasizing the need for robust security testing including static code analysis and dynamic application security testing to identify similar flaws in other software components. Additionally, implementing mandatory access controls and file integrity monitoring solutions can help detect and prevent unauthorized modifications to critical system files.