CVE-2017-12512 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-2017-12512 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within HPE Intelligent Management Center PLAT version 7.3 E0504, specifically affecting the platform's handling of user input in certain web-based administrative functions. This vulnerability stems from inadequate validation of input parameters within the iMC platform's web interface, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system without requiring authentication. The flaw exists in the platform's web server component where user-supplied data is processed without proper sanitization, enabling attackers to inject malicious commands that are subsequently executed with the privileges of the web server process. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-74 which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in a command, and specifically aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter. The affected HPE iMC platform serves as a centralized management solution for network infrastructure, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it could provide attackers with complete control over network devices managed through the platform.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through carefully crafted input parameters sent to the web interface of the iMC platform, where the system fails to properly validate or sanitize user-provided data before processing it. Attackers can leverage this weakness by submitting malicious payloads through web forms or API endpoints that are designed to accept user input for configuration management or monitoring functions. When the platform processes these inputs without adequate validation, the malicious code becomes embedded within the system and executes with the privileges of the web server account, which typically has elevated access to system resources and network components. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple code execution as it can enable attackers to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and potentially compromise the entire network infrastructure managed by the iMC platform. This represents a significant concern for enterprise environments that rely on HPE iMC for network management, as the attack surface includes not only the management platform itself but also all network devices that are configured and monitored through this centralized interface.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-12512 is substantial for organizations using HPE iMC PLAT 7.3 E0504, as successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise and unauthorized access to critical network infrastructure. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain persistent access to the management platform, potentially leading to data exfiltration, network disruption, or lateral movement within the enterprise network. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers can exploit it from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the network, making it particularly attractive to threat actors. Organizations may experience service disruption, compliance violations, and potential regulatory penalties if the vulnerability is exploited, especially in environments where network management systems contain sensitive operational data. The vulnerability's presence in a widely deployed network management platform increases the attack surface significantly, as the platform typically has access to various network devices and systems within the enterprise environment. This makes the impact of exploitation potentially catastrophic for network security posture and business continuity.
The recommended mitigation strategy for CVE-2017-12512 involves immediate deployment of HPE Intelligent Management Center PLAT version 7.3 E0506 or subsequent releases that contain the necessary security patches. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of the iMC platform to untrusted networks, while monitoring network traffic for suspicious activity that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments of their network management infrastructure and ensure that all systems are updated to the latest secure versions. Additional defensive measures include implementing web application firewalls, disabling unnecessary services, and establishing robust monitoring procedures to detect anomalous behavior in the management platform. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw necessitates immediate action, as the patch is specifically designed to address the input validation weakness that allows attackers to inject malicious commands. Organizations should also review their incident response procedures to ensure they are prepared to handle potential exploitation of this vulnerability, considering the high impact potential and the fact that the vulnerability affects a critical network management platform that serves as a central point of control for enterprise network infrastructure.