CVE-2017-12500 in iMC PLAT
Summary
by MITRE
A Remote Code Execution vulnerability in HPE Intelligent Management Center (iMC) PLAT version PLAT 7.3 (E0504) was found. The problem was resolved in HPE Intelligent Management Center PLAT v7.3 (E0506) or any subsequent version.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/07/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-12500 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within HPE Intelligent Management Center (iMC) PLAT version 7.3 (E0504). This security weakness resides in the platform's handling of user input within specific administrative functions, creating an avenue for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The vulnerability specifically impacts the iMC platform's web interface and administrative services, which are commonly used for network management and monitoring purposes within enterprise environments.
Technical analysis reveals that the flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the iMC's web application layer. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting specially malformed requests that bypass authentication mechanisms and directly execute commands on the target system. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-77 and CWE-94, representing improper input validation and code injection weaknesses respectively. These classifications align with the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059, which describes execution through command-line interfaces, and T1190, which covers exploitation of remote services.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent backdoor installation. Network administrators using the affected iMC version face significant risk since the platform typically operates with elevated privileges and has access to critical network infrastructure information. The vulnerability's remote nature eliminates the need for physical access or local network presence, making it particularly dangerous for organizations with exposed management interfaces. Organizations relying on iMC for network monitoring and management are especially vulnerable, as the platform often serves as a central point for network administration.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-12500 require immediate deployment of HPE's official patch version 7.3 (E0506) or subsequent releases. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to iMC management interfaces, enforce strict firewall rules, and monitor for suspicious activities. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary administrative services, implementing multi-factor authentication, and conducting regular security assessments of network management systems. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and following vendor security advisories, as it represents a classic example of how unpatched management interfaces can provide attackers with persistent access to enterprise networks. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous command execution patterns and unauthorized administrative access attempts.