CVE-2017-10955 in Data Protection Advisor
Summary
by MITRE
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable installations of EMC Data Protection Advisor 6.3.0. Authentication is required to exploit this vulnerability. The specific flaw exists within the EMC DPA Application service, which listens on TCP port 9002 by default. When parsing the preScript parameter, the process does not properly validate a user-supplied string before using it to execute a system call. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code under the context of SYSTEM. Was ZDI-CAN-4697. Note: Dell EMC disputes that this is a vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/16/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-10955 represents a critical remote code execution flaw in EMC Data Protection Advisor version 6.3.0, demonstrating the severe consequences that can arise from inadequate input validation in enterprise data protection software. This vulnerability operates through the EMC DPA Application service that listens on the default TCP port 9002, creating a potential attack surface that could be exploited by remote threat actors. The flaw specifically manifests within the processing of the preScript parameter, where the application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied strings before incorporating them into system calls. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-78, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, making it a classic example of command injection that can lead to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as successful exploitation allows attackers to operate under the SYSTEM context, effectively granting them complete administrative control over the affected system. This privilege escalation capability transforms what might initially appear to be a remote code execution vulnerability into a full system compromise threat, enabling attackers to access sensitive data, modify system configurations, install malicious software, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. The requirement for authentication to exploit this vulnerability does not significantly reduce the risk, as legitimate credentials could be compromised through various means including credential stuffing, phishing attacks, or exploitation of other vulnerabilities within the network infrastructure. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability could potentially use it as a foothold for broader network infiltration, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where data protection systems often serve as central points of control.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically recognizing it as a command injection technique that could be part of a broader exploitation chain. The vulnerability's designation as ZDI-CAN-4697 indicates it was identified through coordinated vulnerability disclosure processes, highlighting the importance of vendor collaboration in addressing security flaws. Organizations should implement multiple layers of defense including network segmentation to isolate the affected service, implementing strict access controls and monitoring for unusual activity on port 9002, and ensuring that all system components are regularly updated with the latest security patches. The disputed status by Dell EMC regarding this vulnerability's classification does not diminish its potential impact on affected deployments, as organizations should maintain their own risk assessments and implement defensive measures regardless of vendor positions on specific vulnerabilities. Regular security audits and penetration testing should include verification of input validation mechanisms within application services, particularly those handling user-supplied data that may be passed to system-level operations.