CVE-2016-4898 in DataCenter
Summary
by MITRE
The datamover module in the Linux version of NovaBACKUP DataCenter before 09.06.03.0353 is vulnerable to remote command execution via unspecified attack vectors.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/30/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-4898 affects the datamover module within NovaBACKUP DataCenter software for Linux systems. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that allows remote command execution, potentially enabling attackers to gain unauthorized control over affected systems. The vulnerability exists in versions prior to 09.06.03.0353 of the NovaBACKUP DataCenter software, making all earlier releases susceptible to exploitation. The unspecified attack vectors suggest that multiple pathways exist for exploitation, which increases the overall risk and complexity of defending against this vulnerability.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the datamover module. When processing remote commands or data inputs, the system fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied information, creating opportunities for malicious input to be executed as system commands. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-78, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, commonly known as OS Command Injection. The weakness allows attackers to inject arbitrary commands that are then executed with the privileges of the affected service or application.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents severe consequences for organizations relying on NovaBACKUP DataCenter for their backup and recovery operations. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or disruption of critical backup operations. The remote nature of the attack vector means that adversaries do not require physical access or local credentials to exploit the vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments. Organizations may face regulatory compliance issues, financial losses, and reputational damage if backup systems are compromised, as these systems often contain sensitive organizational data.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the technique T1059.001 - Command and Scripting Interpreter, specifically focusing on the execution of system commands through legitimate interfaces. Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including updating to the patched version 09.06.03.0353 or later, applying network segmentation to limit access to the affected service, and monitoring network traffic for suspicious command execution patterns. Additionally, security administrators should consider implementing input validation controls, privilege separation, and regular security assessments to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other components of the backup infrastructure. The remediation process should include thorough testing of the updated software to ensure that the patch does not introduce compatibility issues with existing backup operations while maintaining the integrity of the organization's data protection strategy.