CVE-2016-4398 in Network Node Manager i
Summary
by MITRE
A remote arbitrary code execution vulnerability was identified in HP Network Node Manager i (NNMi) Software 10.00, 10.01 (patch1), 10.01 (patch 2), 10.10 using Java Deserialization.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/28/2019
The vulnerability CVE-2016-4398 represents a critical remote code execution flaw in HP Network Node Manager i (NNMi) software versions 10.00, 10.01 (patch1), 10.01 (patch2), and 10.10. This vulnerability specifically leverages Java deserialization vulnerabilities within the application's processing of serialized data objects, creating a pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw exists in the software's handling of untrusted input during the deserialization process, which is a well-documented weakness that has been exploited in numerous high-profile attacks across the industry. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-502, which specifically addresses deserialization of untrusted data, making it a direct target for attackers familiar with Java-based exploitation techniques. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that NNMi is a network management tool commonly deployed in enterprise environments where it often runs with elevated privileges and has access to critical network infrastructure information.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker can send specially crafted serialized Java objects to the affected NNMi service through network communication channels. During the deserialization process, these malicious objects are converted back into Java objects and executed within the application context. This creates a scenario where an attacker can remotely execute arbitrary code on the target system with the privileges of the NNMi service account. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows for complete system compromise without requiring authentication, as the deserialization occurs during normal network operations. Attackers can leverage this weakness to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, or deploy additional malware payloads. The attack vector typically involves sending malicious serialized data through the NNMi web interface or management APIs, exploiting the application's trust in serialized data without proper validation or sanitization mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-4398 extends far beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over affected network management systems. In enterprise environments, this vulnerability can lead to widespread network compromise, as NNMi systems often serve as central points for network monitoring and management. The exploitation can result in unauthorized access to sensitive network information, disruption of network services, and potential lateral movement within the enterprise network. Organizations may experience significant operational disruption as attackers can manipulate network configurations, disable monitoring systems, or use the compromised system as a pivot point for attacking other network segments. The vulnerability also poses risks to compliance and regulatory requirements, as it can result in unauthorized access to network infrastructure that may contain sensitive data or critical business information. Additionally, the attack can lead to reputational damage and financial losses due to potential data breaches and service interruptions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-4398 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. Organizations must apply the official HP security patches released for the affected NNMi versions, which address the deserialization vulnerability by implementing proper input validation and sanitization. System administrators should also consider implementing network segmentation to limit access to NNMi services, particularly by restricting network communication to only trusted sources and implementing strict firewall rules. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by running NNMi services with minimal required permissions and avoiding execution with administrative privileges. Additionally, organizations should implement network monitoring solutions to detect unusual deserialization activity or attempts to exploit the vulnerability. Security teams should also conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify similar weaknesses in other Java applications within their environment. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing of patches in non-production environments before deployment to ensure operational stability, while also monitoring for any signs of exploitation attempts during the patching process. Implementation of application whitelisting and runtime application protection measures can provide additional defense-in-depth layers against similar deserialization-based attacks.