CVE-2017-16595 in Enterprise Manager
Summary
by MITRE
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to disclose sensitive information on vulnerable installations of NetGain Systems Enterprise Manager 7.2.730 build 1034. 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.reports.export_005fdownload_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-5118.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/26/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2017-16595 represents a critical information disclosure flaw within NetGain Systems Enterprise Manager version 7.2.730 build 1034. This issue resides in the org.apache.jsp.u.jsp.reports.export_005fdownload_jsp servlet component that operates on the default TCP port 8081, making it accessible to remote attackers who can potentially exploit the system without requiring initial authentication. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the filename parameter processing, creating a path traversal condition that allows malicious users to access arbitrary files on the system. This weakness directly aligns with CWE-22, which categorizes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal vulnerabilities. The security implications extend beyond simple information disclosure as the vulnerability can be leveraged in combination with other exploits to achieve administrative privileges, representing a significant escalation vector in attack chains.
The technical flaw manifests when the servlet processes user-supplied filename parameters without adequate validation of the provided paths, enabling attackers to manipulate file access operations through crafted input. This particular vulnerability operates at the application layer and demonstrates a classic path traversal exploit pattern where attackers can navigate through the file system hierarchy to access restricted files that should normally be protected from unauthorized access. The attack requires an authenticated session to begin the exploitation process, but the authentication bypass capability means that once an attacker gains initial access, they can proceed with more advanced exploitation techniques. The vulnerability specifically affects the file download functionality within the reporting module, suggesting that sensitive data such as configuration files, database credentials, or system logs could potentially be exposed through this mechanism. The default listening port of 8081 provides attackers with a known target, making the system more susceptible to automated scanning and exploitation attempts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond mere data exposure, as it creates a potential pathway for complete system compromise when combined with other vulnerabilities. Attackers who successfully exploit this flaw can potentially execute code with administrator privileges, effectively taking control of the entire enterprise management system. This represents a serious concern for organizations that rely on NetGain Systems for network monitoring and management, as the compromise of such systems can lead to widespread network infiltration and data breaches. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution vector when combined with other exploits places it within the ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation and persistence categories, specifically mapping to techniques such as "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation" and "File and Directory Permissions Modification." Organizations using this software face significant risk of unauthorized access to sensitive enterprise data, potentially including network configurations, user credentials, and system administration details.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including network segmentation to restrict access to the vulnerable port 8081, ensuring that only authorized administrative systems can reach the application. The implementation of web application firewalls and input validation controls can help prevent malicious path traversal attempts, while regular security audits should be conducted to identify and patch similar vulnerabilities. System administrators should disable unnecessary services and ensure that authentication mechanisms are properly configured to prevent unauthorized access. The vulnerability's classification as a path traversal issue indicates that standard security controls such as input sanitization and proper file access controls should be implemented to prevent exploitation. Additionally, organizations should monitor for exploitation attempts through network traffic analysis and implement intrusion detection systems to identify potential attacks targeting this specific vulnerability. Regular patching and vulnerability assessment programs are essential to prevent exploitation of similar weaknesses in other components of the enterprise management infrastructure.