CVE-2017-0305 in SSL Intercept iApp
Summary
by MITRE
F5 SSL Intercept iApp version 1.5.0 - 1.5.7 is vulnerable to an unauthenticated, remote attack that may allow modification of the BIG-IP system configuration, extraction of sensitive system files, and possible remote command execution on the system when deployed using the Explicit Proxy feature plus SNAT Auto Map option for egress traffic.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/27/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-0305 affects F5 SSL Intercept iApp versions 1.5.0 through 1.5.7, representing a critical security flaw that enables unauthenticated remote attackers to compromise BIG-IP system configurations. This vulnerability specifically manifests when the iApp is deployed with the Explicit Proxy feature combined with the SNAT Auto Map option for egress traffic, creating a dangerous combination that exposes the system to sophisticated attack vectors. The flaw resides in the improper handling of network traffic and configuration parameters within the SSL interception process, allowing attackers to manipulate system behavior without requiring authentication credentials or prior access to the network.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and insufficient access controls within the iApp's proxy configuration handling. When the Explicit Proxy feature operates alongside SNAT Auto Map, the system fails to properly validate incoming requests and authenticate the legitimacy of traffic sources. This weakness creates a pathway for attackers to inject malicious configuration parameters that can alter system settings, modify security policies, and potentially execute arbitrary commands on the affected BIG-IP system. The vulnerability operates at the network layer where SSL interception occurs, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited during normal HTTPS traffic processing without detection.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-0305 extends beyond simple configuration modification, as it provides attackers with the capability to extract sensitive system files that may contain encryption keys, user credentials, or other confidential information. This extraction capability, combined with the potential for remote command execution, creates a comprehensive attack surface that could lead to complete system compromise. Organizations relying on F5 BIG-IP systems for SSL termination and traffic management face significant risk, as attackers could potentially establish persistent access, redirect traffic to malicious destinations, or exfiltrate sensitive data from within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects not just individual systems but entire network security infrastructures that depend on F5's SSL interception capabilities for traffic inspection and security enforcement.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-0305 require immediate action to address the vulnerable iApp versions and implement network-level protections. Organizations should upgrade to F5 iApp versions 1.5.8 or later, which contain patches addressing the authentication and validation issues. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to limit exposure of vulnerable systems, while monitoring systems should be enhanced to detect unusual traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The implementation of proper firewall rules and network access controls can help prevent unauthorized access to the affected systems. Additionally, organizations should consider disabling the Explicit Proxy feature with SNAT Auto Map when not strictly necessary, following the principle of least privilege to minimize potential attack surface. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control in software systems, and maps to ATT&CK techniques related to privilege escalation and credential access through network infrastructure manipulation. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify any remaining exposure and ensure comprehensive protection against similar vulnerabilities in the F5 BIG-IP ecosystem.