CVE-2017-16540 in OpenEMR
Summary
by MITRE
OpenEMR before 5.0.0 Patch 5 allows unauthenticated remote database copying because setup.php exposes functionality for cloning an existing OpenEMR site to an arbitrary attacker-controlled MySQL server via vectors involving a crafted state parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/23/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-16540 represents a critical security flaw in OpenEMR versions prior to 5.0.0 Patch 5, where the setup.php script inadvertently exposes database cloning functionality to unauthenticated remote attackers. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and access control mechanisms within the application's setup process, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate the database configuration parameters. The flaw specifically involves the state parameter handling which allows attackers to redirect the database cloning process to a remote MySQL server under their control, effectively enabling them to copy or replicate database contents without proper authentication. This represents a fundamental failure in the application's security architecture where administrative functions are accessible through predictable and manipulable parameters. The vulnerability falls under CWE-284 Access Control Issues, specifically involving inadequate access control mechanisms that allow unauthorized users to perform privileged operations. From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates an immediate risk of data exfiltration and system compromise, as attackers can potentially gain access to sensitive patient information and database structures. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no prior authentication credentials, making it highly exploitable in network environments where the application is publicly accessible. The impact extends beyond simple data theft to include potential system disruption and the possibility of establishing persistent access points within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic case of insecure parameter handling where the state parameter, intended for legitimate application state management, becomes a manipulation vector for unauthorized database operations. This flaw aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 Valid Accounts, as it allows adversaries to effectively gain database-level access without requiring legitimate user credentials, and T1041 Exfiltration Over C2 Channel, as the copied database contents could be transmitted to attacker-controlled systems. The exploitation of this vulnerability requires minimal technical expertise, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by attackers with basic knowledge of web application exploitation techniques. Organizations running affected versions of OpenEMR face significant risk of compliance violations and data breaches, particularly in healthcare environments where patient privacy regulations such as HIPAA apply. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper input validation and parameter sanitization in web applications, as the lack of proper validation allows attackers to manipulate application behavior through crafted input parameters. Security professionals should consider this vulnerability when conducting risk assessments for healthcare information systems and ensure that proper patch management procedures are in place to address such critical flaws. The recommended mitigation involves immediate deployment of the patched version 5.0.0 Patch 5 or applying the relevant security patches that address the improper access control in the setup.php script and implement proper validation of the state parameter. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of the application to untrusted networks, while monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual database connection patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and the potential consequences of failing to apply security updates promptly in healthcare information systems.