CVE-2017-17424 in NetVault Backup
Summary
by MITRE
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable installations of Quest NetVault Backup 11.3.0.12. Authentication is not required to exploit this vulnerability. The specific flaw exists within the handling of NVBUScheduleSet Get method requests. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of a user-supplied string before using it to construct SQL queries. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the underlying database. Was ZDI-CAN-4235.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/03/2020
This vulnerability in Quest NetVault Backup version 11.3.0.12 represents a critical remote code execution flaw that bypasses authentication requirements, making it particularly dangerous for networked environments. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the NVBUScheduleSet Get method implementation, where user-supplied strings are directly incorporated into SQL query construction without proper sanitization or parameterization. This design flaw creates an environment where malicious actors can inject arbitrary SQL commands through carefully crafted requests, potentially compromising the entire database infrastructure. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection weaknesses that occur when untrusted data is used to construct SQL queries without proper validation or escaping mechanisms. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it requires no authentication credentials, enabling attackers to exploit the system remotely from any network location.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability leverages the improper handling of user input within the database interaction layer, creating a pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary code within the database context. When the NVBUScheduleSet Get method processes incoming requests, it fails to validate or sanitize the string parameters before incorporating them into SQL statements, leading to potential SQL injection attacks. This flaw allows malicious actors to manipulate database queries and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive data or system resources. The impact extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute commands on the underlying database server, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability's designation as ZDI-CAN-4235 indicates it was recognized and tracked by the Zero Day Initiative, highlighting its significance in the cybersecurity community and the need for immediate remediation.
Organizations running Quest NetVault Backup 11.3.0.12 face severe operational risks from this vulnerability, as it provides attackers with unrestricted remote access to database systems without requiring authentication. The lack of authentication requirements means that any network-connected attacker can potentially exploit this flaw, making it particularly dangerous for systems exposed to the internet or poorly secured internal networks. This vulnerability directly maps to several ATT&CK techniques including T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage and T1068 for local privilege escalation, as attackers can leverage database access to move laterally within the network infrastructure. The operational impact includes potential data loss, system compromise, and regulatory compliance violations, particularly for organizations handling sensitive or regulated information. Organizations must consider the broader implications of this vulnerability on their overall security posture, as it represents a fundamental breakdown in input validation and database security practices.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the affected Quest NetVault Backup version, as well as implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure. Organizations should deploy web application firewalls and database activity monitoring solutions to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The remediation process must include comprehensive testing to ensure that the patch does not disrupt legitimate backup operations, as this vulnerability affects core backup functionality. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase will help prevent similar issues in future development cycles. Security teams should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of all database-facing applications and implement principle of least privilege access controls to minimize potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in preventing database-related security incidents that could lead to complete system compromise.