CVE-2017-12285 in Network Analysis Module
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability in the web interface of Cisco Network Analysis Module Software could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to delete arbitrary files from an affected system, aka Directory Traversal. The vulnerability exists because the affected software does not perform proper input validation of HTTP requests that it receives and the software does not apply role-based access controls (RBACs) to requested HTTP URLs. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending a crafted HTTP request to the affected software. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to delete arbitrary files from the affected system. Cisco Bug IDs: CSCvf41365.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/19/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-12285 affects Cisco Network Analysis Module Software and represents a critical directory traversal flaw that enables unauthenticated remote attackers to execute arbitrary file deletion operations on affected systems. This security weakness stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the web interface of the network analysis module, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate HTTP requests and gain unauthorized access to system resources. The vulnerability specifically impacts the software's inability to properly validate incoming HTTP requests, allowing attackers to craft malicious payloads that can traverse directory structures and access files outside of intended boundaries. The absence of role-based access controls further compounds the risk by failing to enforce proper authorization checks on requested HTTP URLs, effectively removing barriers that would normally prevent unauthorized file operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves sending carefully crafted HTTP requests that manipulate path traversal sequences, enabling attackers to target files beyond the intended application scope. This flaw operates at the application layer and leverages weaknesses in the software's request processing logic, where input validation is inadequate to prevent malicious path manipulation attempts. The vulnerability can be classified under CWE-22, which specifically addresses directory traversal or path traversal issues in software applications. Attackers can exploit this weakness without requiring authentication credentials, making it particularly dangerous as it eliminates the need for initial access privileges. The attack vector primarily targets the web interface components of the Cisco Network Analysis Module, where HTTP request handling fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input parameters.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file deletion capabilities, as it represents a fundamental breakdown in application security controls that could enable more sophisticated attacks. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could potentially delete critical system files, configuration data, or log files that are essential for network monitoring and security operations. The consequences could include complete system compromise, service disruption, and loss of valuable network analysis data that organizations rely upon for security incident response and network troubleshooting. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and availability of network analysis services, potentially leaving organizations without critical visibility into their network traffic and security events. The lack of authentication requirements means that any remote attacker with network access can potentially exploit this weakness, amplifying the risk to organizations that expose their network analysis modules to external networks.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the relevant Cisco security patches and updates that address this directory traversal vulnerability, as well as implementing network segmentation to limit access to the affected web interface. The implementation of proper input validation controls and enhanced HTTP request filtering mechanisms should be prioritized to prevent malicious path traversal attempts. Network administrators should also consider disabling unnecessary web interface access where possible and implementing additional monitoring controls to detect suspicious HTTP request patterns. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, as it represents an exploitation of a publicly accessible web interface component. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to help identify and block malicious requests attempting to exploit this vulnerability. The remediation process should include comprehensive security testing to ensure that input validation controls are properly implemented and that no other similar vulnerabilities exist within the affected software components.