CVE-2017-17652 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 NVBUBackup Count 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-4238.
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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 affects the database layer of the backup software. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the NVBUBackup Count method request handling mechanism, creating a path for malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands into the system. The flaw specifically manifests when the application processes user-supplied strings without proper sanitization before incorporating them into database query constructions, effectively allowing attackers to manipulate the underlying database operations through crafted requests.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with common weakness patterns identified in the CWE database under CWE-89, which describes SQL injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL commands without proper validation or escaping mechanisms. This particular implementation flaw enables attackers to bypass authentication requirements entirely, as the vulnerability exists at the database interaction layer rather than requiring valid user credentials. The attack vector operates through the manipulation of the NVBUBackup Count method, which likely serves as an administrative or monitoring function within the backup system's API interface.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise, as successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary code within the database context with the privileges of the database user account. This creates a significant risk for organizations relying on Quest NetVault Backup, as the compromised system could potentially be used to escalate privileges, extract sensitive backup data, modify backup configurations, or even establish persistent access points within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability's remote exploitability without authentication makes it particularly dangerous in environments where the backup system is accessible from external networks or where default configurations expose administrative interfaces.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should prioritize immediate remediation through the vendor-provided security patches or updates. The mitigation strategy should include implementing network segmentation to restrict access to backup systems, disabling unnecessary administrative interfaces, and monitoring for suspicious database activity. Security professionals should also consider implementing database activity monitoring solutions to detect potential exploitation attempts and establish network-based intrusion detection rules targeting the specific NVBUBackup Count method patterns. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper database query construction practices, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation and T1046 for network service discovery that may precede exploitation attempts.