CVE-2017-16598 in Enterprise Manager
Summary
by MITRE
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute code by overwriting arbitrary files 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.tools.snmpwalk.snmpwalk_005fdo_jsp servlet, which listens on TCP port 8081 by default. When parsing the ip parameter, 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-5138.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/26/2019
This vulnerability represents a critical path traversal flaw in NetGain Systems Enterprise Manager 7.2.730 build 1034 that enables remote code execution through arbitrary file overwriting. The vulnerability exists within the org.apache.jsp.u.jsp.tools.snmpwalk.snmpwalk_005fdo_jsp servlet component which operates on the default TCP port 8081, making it accessible to remote attackers. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation when processing the ip parameter, allowing attackers to manipulate file paths and overwrite critical system files. This vulnerability falls under CWE-22 Path Traversal and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables arbitrary code execution. The security implications are severe as the vulnerability can be exploited without prior authentication through a bypass mechanism, effectively rendering the authentication layer ineffective. The default listening port 8081 creates a predictable attack surface that security researchers and malicious actors can easily target, while the requirement for authentication to exploit the vulnerability does not prevent attackers from leveraging the bypass mechanism to gain unauthorized access.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic file path manipulation attack where the application fails to sanitize user input before using it in file system operations. When the ip parameter is processed, the application does not properly validate or sanitize the path supplied by the attacker, allowing for directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ to be injected into file operations. This weakness creates a direct pathway for attackers to overwrite files in the application's directory structure, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability specifically targets the SNMP walk functionality within the enterprise manager, which is commonly used for network monitoring and management tasks. The use of JSP (Java Server Pages) technology in the vulnerable component adds complexity to the exploitation process, as attackers can leverage the Java runtime environment to execute malicious payloads. The fact that the attack can be executed under the Administrator context indicates that the vulnerable service runs with elevated privileges, amplifying the potential impact to include system-wide compromise and data exfiltration.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data breaches. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can gain full administrative control over the affected NetGain Systems Enterprise Manager installation, potentially accessing sensitive network information, modifying system configurations, or deploying additional malicious software. The vulnerability's ability to bypass existing authentication mechanisms creates a particularly dangerous scenario where unauthorized users can gain elevated privileges without proper authorization. This flaw represents a significant security gap in network management systems, as enterprise managers are typically critical components of network infrastructure that require robust security controls. The vulnerability's presence in a widely deployed enterprise management solution means that organizations could be exposed to persistent threats, with attackers potentially using the compromised system as a foothold for broader network infiltration.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including network segmentation to restrict access to the vulnerable TCP port 8081, implementing strong access controls, and applying vendor-provided patches or updates. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 Application Layer Protocol DNS, as attackers may use DNS resolution to identify vulnerable systems, and T1566 Impersonation, since the bypass mechanism allows unauthorized access. Security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the affected software, particularly in network management and monitoring environments. Network monitoring solutions should be configured to detect unusual file system activity and unauthorized access attempts to the vulnerable port. Additionally, implementing network access control lists to restrict access to port 8081 to only trusted IP addresses and establishing regular patch management procedures can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and proper file system access controls in enterprise applications, particularly those handling network management functions where elevated privileges are commonly required.