CVE-2016-9976 in Maximo Asset Management
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Maximo Asset Management 7.1, 7.5, and 7.6 could allow a remote attacker to include arbitrary files. A remote attacker could send a specially-crafted URL request, which could allow the attacker to execute arbitrary code on the vulnerable server. IBM X-Force ID: 120252.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/22/2020
This vulnerability in IBM Maximo Asset Management versions 7.1, 7.5, and 7.6 represents a critical server-side include flaw that enables remote code execution through manipulated URL requests. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the application's request processing mechanism, allowing attackers to manipulate file inclusion parameters and potentially execute malicious code on the target server. The flaw specifically affects the application's handling of file paths in web requests, creating an opportunity for arbitrary file inclusion attacks that can be exploited from remote locations without authentication. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-829 weakness category, which encompasses insecure file inclusion patterns that permit attackers to execute arbitrary code by manipulating file paths or references within the application's request handling logic. The attack vector leverages the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file operations, creating a direct pathway for code execution that aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script injection.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data exfiltration. Remote attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can gain unauthorized access to the underlying server infrastructure, potentially leading to privilege escalation, data theft, or system-wide disruption. The vulnerability affects organizations using IBM Maximo Asset Management across multiple versions, indicating a widespread exposure that could impact enterprise asset management systems critical to industrial operations, manufacturing processes, and infrastructure management. Organizations relying on these systems for critical asset tracking, maintenance scheduling, and operational oversight face significant risk from this vulnerability, as it could enable attackers to manipulate or destroy operational data, disrupt business processes, and potentially compromise physical security systems that depend on accurate asset information.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of input validation controls and proper request sanitization mechanisms. Organizations should apply the vendor-provided security patches and updates released for IBM Maximo Asset Management versions 7.1, 7.5, and 7.6 to address the root cause of the file inclusion flaw. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor and block suspicious URL patterns that attempt to exploit this vulnerability. Additionally, implementing proper access controls, least privilege principles, and regular security assessments can help reduce the attack surface and prevent exploitation attempts. Security teams should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of their Maximo deployments to identify any additional configuration issues that might compound the risk of exploitation, while establishing monitoring procedures to detect potential exploitation attempts through anomalous file access patterns or unusual network traffic originating from the affected systems. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in enterprise applications, particularly those handling sensitive operational data in industrial environments.