CVE-2017-16542 in Applications Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Zoho ManageEngine Applications Manager 13 allows Post-authentication SQL injection via the name parameter in a manageApplications.do?method=insert request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/11/2019
The vulnerability CVE-2017-16542 represents a critical post-authentication sql injection flaw in Zoho ManageEngine Applications Manager version 13. This vulnerability resides within the web application's handling of user input through the manageApplications.do servlet endpoint, specifically targeting the name parameter in the insert method request. The flaw allows authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands against the underlying database by manipulating the name parameter, potentially leading to complete database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive organizational data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the application's parameter handling mechanism. When a user submits a request to manageApplications.do?method=insert, the application processes the name parameter without proper sql escaping or parameterized query construction. This creates an environment where maliciously crafted input can be interpreted as sql code rather than plain text data. The vulnerability is classified as a post-authentication issue because exploitation requires valid user credentials, but once authenticated, the attacker can leverage this flaw to bypass normal access controls and directly interact with the database layer.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to manipulate, modify, or delete database records, potentially leading to data corruption or complete system compromise. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, extract sensitive information including user credentials, financial data, or proprietary business information, and establish persistent access points within the organization's infrastructure. The vulnerability affects organizations using Zoho ManageEngine Applications Manager 13, which is commonly deployed for application monitoring and management in enterprise environments, making it particularly dangerous for organizations that rely on this platform for critical business operations.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the vendor-provided security patches and updates released to address this vulnerability. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of the affected application to only authorized users. Input validation should be strengthened at all application entry points, and the principle of least privilege should be applied to database accounts used by the application. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 sql injection weakness and maps to attack techniques in the ATT&CK framework under TA0006 credential access and TA0002 execution categories, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security controls including database monitoring, web application firewalls, and regular security assessments to prevent exploitation.