CVE-2017-11508 in SecurityCenter
Summary
by MITRE
SecurityCenter versions 5.5.0, 5.5.1 and 5.5.2 contain a SQL Injection vulnerability that could be exploited by an authenticated user with sufficient privileges to run diagnostic scans. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by entering a crafted SQL query into the password field of a diagnostic scan within SecurityCenter. Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could allow an attacker to gain unauthorized access.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/08/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-11508 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within Tenable SecurityCenter versions 5.5.0 through 5.5.2. This vulnerability specifically targets the diagnostic scan functionality of the security platform, creating a pathway for authenticated attackers to execute malicious SQL commands. The flaw exists within the input validation mechanisms that process user-provided data during diagnostic scan operations, particularly when handling password field inputs. SecurityCenter serves as a comprehensive vulnerability management solution that organizations rely upon for continuous monitoring and security assessment, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for enterprise environments.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a carefully crafted SQL query inserted into the password field of a diagnostic scan. When the application processes this malformed input without proper sanitization or parameterization, the injected SQL commands execute within the database context of the SecurityCenter application. This creates a direct attack vector that allows an authenticated user with sufficient privileges to manipulate the underlying database structure, potentially gaining access to sensitive information, modifying security configurations, or escalating their privileges within the system. The vulnerability specifically leverages the lack of proper input validation and the absence of parameterized queries in the diagnostic scan functionality, which aligns with common CWE categories related to improper input validation and insecure data handling practices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform extensive database manipulation and information disclosure. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could potentially extract sensitive configuration data, user credentials, or security assessment results stored within the SecurityCenter database. The attack requires only authentication to the SecurityCenter platform, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by insider threats or compromised accounts. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and confidentiality of the security monitoring environment, potentially allowing attackers to undermine the very security controls that organizations depend upon for threat detection and response. The affected versions represent a specific release cycle where proper input sanitization was not implemented in the diagnostic scan processing module.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to SecurityCenter versions that address this vulnerability, typically versions 5.5.3 or later where proper input validation and parameterization have been implemented. Network segmentation and access controls should be reinforced to limit the number of users with sufficient privileges to perform diagnostic scans. The implementation of web application firewalls and database activity monitoring can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. SecurityCenter administrators should also conduct thorough access reviews to ensure that only necessary personnel have the privileges required to execute diagnostic scans. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in security applications and aligns with ATT&CK techniques related to credential access and privilege escalation. Organizations should also consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning to identify similar issues in other security tools and applications within their environment. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical need for secure coding practices and regular security assessments of security management platforms.