CVE-2016-8232 in IBM BladeCenter
Summary
by MITRE
Document Object Model-(DOM) based cross-site scripting vulnerability in the Advanced Management Module (AMM) versions earlier than 66Z of Lenovo IBM BladeCenter HS22, HS22V, HS23, HS23E, HX5 allows an unauthenticated attacker with access to the AMM's IP address to send a crafted URL that could inject a malicious script to access a user's AMM data such as cookies or other session information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/12/2024
The CVE-2016-8232 vulnerability represents a critical DOM-based cross-site scripting flaw within Lenovo IBM BladeCenter Advanced Management Module versions prior to 66Z. This security weakness specifically affects the HS22, HS22V, HS23, HS23E, and HX5 blade server models, creating a significant attack surface for unauthenticated adversaries who can reach the AMM's IP address. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the DOM processing mechanisms of the management interface, allowing malicious script injection through crafted URLs that bypass normal security controls.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through DOM-based XSS attacks where an attacker crafts malicious URLs that, when visited by a victim, execute unauthorized scripts within the victim's browser context. The Advanced Management Module serves as a web-based interface for remote server management, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to compromise administrative sessions. The flaw enables attackers to inject malicious scripts that can steal session cookies, access sensitive administrative data, and potentially escalate privileges within the management interface. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-79, which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications, and demonstrates the critical importance of proper DOM sanitization in web-based management interfaces.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with unauthorized access to critical server management functions. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can access user session information including authentication tokens, which could lead to full administrative control of the blade server. The unauthenticated nature of the attack means that any individual with network access to the AMM's IP address can potentially exploit this weakness, making it particularly dangerous in shared or unsecured network environments. This vulnerability directly impacts the principle of least privilege and can compromise the integrity of server management operations, potentially allowing attackers to modify server configurations, access logs, or perform other administrative functions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-8232 should prioritize immediate firmware updates to versions 66Z or later, which contain the necessary patches to address the DOM-based XSS vulnerability. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to restrict access to AMM interfaces, requiring authentication and authorization controls before allowing access to management functions. The implementation of web application firewalls and content security policies can provide additional protection layers against similar attacks. Security teams should conduct regular vulnerability assessments of management interfaces and ensure that all remote management systems are properly configured with strong authentication mechanisms. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which covers application layer protocol: web protocols, and demonstrates the importance of securing management interfaces against common web application vulnerabilities. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring to detect suspicious URL patterns and potential exploitation attempts targeting management interfaces.