CVE-2017-12506 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-2017-12506 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within HPE Intelligent Management Center PLAT version 7.3 (E0504). This enterprise-level network management platform serves as a comprehensive solution for monitoring and managing HPE network infrastructure components, making it a prime target for cyber adversaries seeking persistent access to critical network assets. The vulnerability resides within the platform's handling of user-supplied input, specifically in the processing of HTTP requests that lack proper sanitization mechanisms, creating an avenue for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on the affected system with the privileges of the running service account.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the iMC PLAT web interface components. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting specially malformed HTTP requests that bypass authentication mechanisms and directly invoke vulnerable code paths within the application's backend processing. This flaw operates under CWE-77: Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command, which classifies it as a command injection vulnerability that allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the target system. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require authentication for initial access, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by remote attackers without prior credentials, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1203 for legitimate credentials and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected iMC server, potentially enabling them to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive network management data, or use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks within the network perimeter. Given that iMC systems typically manage critical network infrastructure components including switches, routers, and security appliances, successful exploitation could result in widespread network disruption, unauthorized access to sensitive network resources, and potential compromise of the entire network management ecosystem. Organizations utilizing this platform may face significant compliance violations and regulatory penalties if sensitive network data is compromised through this vulnerability.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate deployment of HPE's official patch release E0506 or subsequent versions that address the identified vulnerability through proper input sanitization and request validation mechanisms. Network administrators should implement additional protective measures including firewall rules restricting access to the iMC platform's administrative interfaces, network segmentation to limit potential lateral movement, and comprehensive monitoring of suspicious network traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify any potential compromise indicators and ensure that all network management systems are regularly updated and patched according to established security protocols. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-77 and its exploitation patterns align with ATT&CK framework's emphasis on command injection and remote access techniques, highlighting the importance of robust input validation and principle of least privilege implementation.