CVE-2017-12505 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.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/07/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-12505 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within HPE Intelligent Management Center (iMC) PLAT version 7.3 E0504. This issue resides in the platform's handling of user-supplied input within the web interface, specifically affecting the iMC's administrative console functionality. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize data submitted through web forms and API endpoints, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The flaw manifests when legitimate administrative users interact with the web-based management interface, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by attackers who have gained initial access through other means or through social engineering tactics.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves improper handling of specially crafted input parameters that are processed by the iMC's backend services. When user-provided data is not adequately validated or sanitized, attackers can inject malicious code that gets executed within the context of the web application's privileges. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-20, which describes improper input validation, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter. The exploitation typically involves crafting specific HTTP requests containing malicious payloads that bypass the application's security controls, ultimately allowing attackers to execute commands on the target system with the privileges of the web application user. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that iMC systems often operate in privileged network environments where administrative access provides extensive control over network infrastructure.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-12505 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to establish persistent access to the compromised iMC platform. Once exploited, attackers can leverage the compromised system to perform reconnaissance activities, pivot to other network segments, and potentially gain access to additional network resources. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on iMC for network management and monitoring, creating potential exposure for critical network infrastructure components. Organizations using affected versions face significant risk of data breaches, network disruption, and potential compromise of network security controls, as the iMC platform typically serves as a central management point for network devices and security policies. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and disruption of network management services.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability primarily involve upgrading to HPE Intelligent Management Center PLAT version 7.3 E0506 or later, which includes patches addressing the input validation flaws. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to iMC systems and enforce strict access controls for administrative accounts. Additional defensive measures include monitoring web application logs for suspicious activities, implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests, and conducting regular security assessments of network management systems. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining current security patches and following secure coding practices, particularly in administrative interfaces that handle user input. Network administrators should also consider implementing multi-factor authentication for administrative access and regularly audit access controls to prevent unauthorized exploitation of such vulnerabilities. Organizations should conduct vulnerability assessments to identify other potentially affected systems and ensure comprehensive security coverage across their network management infrastructure.