CVE-2017-17654 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 ClientList 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-4287.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/03/2020
This vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw in Quest NetVault Backup version 11.3.0.12 that exposes systems to remote code execution without requiring authentication. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the NVBUBackup ClientList method implementation, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted user-supplied strings. The absence of proper sanitization mechanisms allows attackers to inject malicious SQL commands that are then executed within the database context, potentially enabling full system compromise. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL commands without proper validation or escaping.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or modification, as it provides attackers with database-level execution privileges that can be leveraged for extensive system compromise. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability can execute arbitrary code within the database environment, potentially gaining access to sensitive backup data, modifying database structures, or even escalating privileges to system-level access. The lack of authentication requirements makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by anyone with network access to the affected system, eliminating the need for credential theft or social engineering attacks. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.005 for application layer protocol usage and T1046 for network service scanning, as attackers would likely first identify the vulnerable service before executing the exploit.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires understanding the specific API endpoint structure within Quest NetVault Backup's NVBUBackup ClientList method and crafting malicious input that bypasses validation checks. Attackers typically construct payloads that manipulate the SQL query construction process, potentially using techniques such as union-based attacks or time-based inference to extract data or execute commands. The vulnerability's persistence in the database context means that successful exploitation could result in long-term access to backup systems, which are often considered trusted environments within enterprise networks. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including patching to the latest version of Quest NetVault Backup, network segmentation to limit access to backup systems, and monitoring for suspicious database activity. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries within the application code would prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in the future, aligning with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.