CVE-2017-16591 in Enterprise Manager
Summary
by MITRE
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to disclose sensitive information on vulnerable installations of NetGain Systems Enterprise Manager 7.2.699 build 1001. Although authentication is required to exploit this vulnerability, the existing authentication mechanism can be bypassed. The specific flaw exists within the org.apache.jsp.u.jsp.restore.download_005fdo_jsp servlet, which listens on TCP port 8081 by default. When parsing the filename parameter, the process does not properly validate a user-supplied path prior to using it in file operations. An attacker can leverage this in conjunction with other vulnerabilities to execute code in the context of Administrator. Was ZDI-CAN-5100.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/26/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-16591 represents a critical information disclosure flaw within NetGain Systems Enterprise Manager version 7.2.699 build 1001, exposing systems to potential exploitation through improper input validation mechanisms. This vulnerability operates within the org.apache.jsp.u.jsp.restore.download_005fdo_jsp servlet component that listens on the default TCP port 8081, creating a persistent attack surface that can be leveraged by threat actors. The flaw stems from inadequate validation of user-supplied path parameters during filename processing, which creates a path traversal condition that allows unauthorized access to sensitive system resources. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. This weakness enables attackers to access files outside the intended directory structure, potentially exposing confidential data, system configurations, or administrative resources.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires an initial authentication step, but the existing authentication mechanisms can be bypassed through various means including credential reuse, session hijacking, or exploitation of other concurrent vulnerabilities within the system. The attack vector specifically targets the filename parameter processing within the servlet, where user input is directly used in file operations without proper sanitization or validation. This creates a scenario where an attacker can manipulate the path parameter to navigate through the file system hierarchy and access restricted files. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by its potential to enable code execution in the context of an Administrator account, representing a privilege escalation opportunity that could lead to complete system compromise. The vulnerability was assigned the ZDI-CAN-5100 identifier, indicating its recognition by the Zero Day Initiative and highlighting its significance in the cybersecurity community.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it creates a pathway for attackers to gain elevated privileges and potentially establish persistent access to enterprise environments. When combined with other vulnerabilities present in the system, this flaw can enable attackers to execute arbitrary code with administrative privileges, effectively compromising the entire enterprise management infrastructure. The default listening port of 8081 makes the vulnerability easily discoverable through network scanning activities, increasing the likelihood of successful exploitation. Organizations using NetGain Systems Enterprise Manager 7.2.699 build 1001 face significant risk exposure, particularly in environments where network segmentation is inadequate or where the system is directly exposed to untrusted networks. The vulnerability's exploitation can result in the disclosure of sensitive configuration files, user credentials, system logs, and other confidential information that could be leveraged for further attacks within the network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-16591 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The most effective immediate solution involves applying the vendor-provided security patches or updates that address the path traversal vulnerability in the affected servlet component. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to restrict access to port 8081, ensuring that only authorized management systems can reach the vulnerable service. Additional protective measures include implementing robust input validation controls, enforcing strict authentication mechanisms, and establishing network monitoring to detect suspicious file access patterns. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. Security teams should also conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify and remediate other potential weaknesses that could be leveraged in conjunction with this vulnerability. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be performed to ensure that the implemented controls remain effective against evolving attack techniques, while adherence to security best practices such as principle of least privilege and regular security updates should be maintained across all enterprise systems.