CVE-2017-16597 in Enterprise Manager
Summary
by MITRE
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable installations of NetGain Systems Enterprise Manager 7.2.730 build 1034. Authentication is not required to exploit this vulnerability. The specific flaw exists within the processing of WRQ requests. When parsing the Filename field, the process does not properly validate a user-supplied path prior to using it in file operations. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code under the context of Administrator. Was ZDI-CAN-5137.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/26/2019
This vulnerability represents a critical remote code execution flaw in NetGain Systems Enterprise Manager version 7.2.730 build 1034 that operates without requiring any authentication credentials. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the WRQ request processing mechanism, specifically in how the system handles the Filename field during file operations. This design flaw creates an exploitable condition where malicious actors can manipulate the path parameter to gain unauthorized code execution privileges. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that it requires no authentication, making it particularly dangerous for systems accessible over networks. The flaw allows attackers to execute arbitrary code under the elevated context of the Administrator account, providing complete system compromise capabilities.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a classic path traversal or injection attack vector where the application fails to sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file system operations. When processing WRQ requests, the system directly incorporates the Filename field into file operations without adequate validation or sanitization measures. This allows attackers to craft malicious input that can manipulate the file system behavior, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-74 Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in Output Used by a Downstream Component, both of which are fundamental security weaknesses that enable attackers to manipulate system operations through crafted input. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the Enterprise Manager application likely handles sensitive network management data and system configurations.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risk to organizations relying on NetGain Systems Enterprise Manager for network infrastructure management. Attackers can exploit this flaw remotely to gain administrative control over affected systems, potentially leading to complete network compromise. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution to include data exfiltration, system modification, and potential lateral movement within the network. Organizations may face regulatory compliance violations and operational disruption if this vulnerability is exploited successfully. The lack of authentication requirements means that attackers can exploit this vulnerability at scale without needing to establish initial access through other means, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible systems. This vulnerability also represents a significant concern for organizations with limited security monitoring capabilities, as the exploitation may go unnoticed for extended periods.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate application of vendor patches or updates to address the path validation flaw in WRQ request processing. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to the Enterprise Manager application and restrict external exposure where possible. Network monitoring solutions should be configured to detect anomalous WRQ request patterns and unusual file system operations. Access controls should be strengthened to ensure that only authorized personnel can interact with the system, and multi-factor authentication should be implemented where feasible. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw warrants comprehensive incident response planning and system hardening measures. Security teams should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify any other systems potentially affected by similar path traversal vulnerabilities. Additionally, implementing network-based intrusion detection systems and regular security audits can help detect exploitation attempts and reduce the window of opportunity for attackers to leverage this vulnerability effectively.