CVE-2017-16600 in Enterprise Manager
Summary
by MITRE
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to overwrite 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.reports.templates.network.traffic_005freport_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 vulnerability to overwrite any files accessible to the Administrator. Was ZDI-CAN-5191.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/01/2021
This vulnerability in NetGain Systems Enterprise Manager 7.2.730 build 1034 represents a critical file overwriting flaw that demonstrates poor input validation practices in web application security. The vulnerability exists within the org.apache.jsp.u.jsp.reports.templates.network.traffic_005freport_jsp servlet component, which operates on the default TCP port 8081, making it accessible to remote attackers who can potentially compromise the system through unauthenticated exploitation. The flaw stems from insufficient validation of user-supplied path parameters during filename processing, creating a path traversal condition that allows malicious actors to manipulate file operations. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because while the system requires authentication to exploit, the existing authentication mechanism can be bypassed, effectively removing the primary access control barrier. The attack surface is further expanded by the fact that the vulnerable component listens on a well-known port, making it discoverable through standard network scanning techniques. The default configuration of the application exposes this vulnerability without requiring any special network conditions or complex attack vectors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the improper handling of file path parameters within the JSP servlet, where user input directly influences file system operations without adequate sanitization or validation. When an attacker supplies a malicious filename parameter, the application processes this input without verifying its legitimacy or ensuring it remains within the intended directory boundaries. This creates a classic path traversal scenario where the application treats the user-supplied path as a legitimate file operation target, allowing attackers to overwrite files accessible to the Administrator account. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The flaw demonstrates a fundamental lack of input validation and proper access control implementation, where the application fails to enforce proper authorization checks before executing file operations. This weakness enables attackers to escalate privileges through file system manipulation, potentially compromising the entire system's integrity.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwriting, as it provides attackers with the ability to compromise the application's administrative functions and potentially gain persistent access to the system. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can overwrite critical system files, configuration files, or even executable components that would allow for privilege escalation or system compromise. The fact that this vulnerability affects the Enterprise Manager application, which typically handles sensitive network monitoring and management data, creates additional risks for organizations that rely on this platform for critical infrastructure monitoring. The default listening port 8081 and the bypassable authentication mechanism mean that this vulnerability could be exploited by automated scanning tools or attackers with basic network reconnaissance capabilities. Organizations using this software are at risk of data loss, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within their networks, as the attacker could overwrite files that control application behavior or store sensitive configuration information. The vulnerability's classification as ZDI-CAN-5191 indicates it was recognized by the Zero Day Initiative, highlighting its significance in the cybersecurity community and the need for immediate remediation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on both immediate patching and architectural improvements to prevent similar issues. The most effective immediate solution involves applying the vendor-provided security patch that addresses the path traversal vulnerability in the affected JSP servlet component. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to restrict access to the default port 8081, ensuring that only authorized systems can reach the vulnerable application. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file system operations, would prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in other components. Security controls should include mandatory authentication for all administrative functions, proper access control lists that limit file system operations to authorized users, and regular security audits to identify other potential path traversal vulnerabilities. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to monitor and filter suspicious file operation requests, as well as establishing robust logging and monitoring procedures to detect unauthorized file system modifications. The implementation of principle of least privilege for application accounts and regular security assessments would further reduce the risk of exploitation and provide defense in depth against similar vulnerabilities. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper input validation and access control mechanisms in preventing privilege escalation through file system manipulation attacks.