CVE-2017-17658 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 NVBUJobDefinitions 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-4316.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
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 NVBUJobDefinitions Get method implementation, creating an attack surface where malicious actors can manipulate database queries through crafted user-supplied strings. The absence of proper sanitization mechanisms allows attackers to inject malicious SQL commands that execute with the privileges of the database user account, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with common attack patterns described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the technique of SQL injection and command execution. Specifically, this flaw maps to CWE-89 which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands as a primary weakness. The vulnerability demonstrates how insufficient input validation creates opportunities for attackers to manipulate application logic and gain unauthorized access to backend database systems. The lack of authentication requirements makes this particularly dangerous as it eliminates the need for initial access credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple database compromise, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system takeover and data exfiltration. Attackers can leverage the SQL injection to escalate privileges, access sensitive backup data, modify database contents, or even use the compromised system as a pivot point for further attacks within the network. This vulnerability affects organizations that rely on Quest NetVault Backup for their data protection infrastructure, potentially exposing critical backup systems to unauthorized access and manipulation.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the vendor-provided security patches, implementing network segmentation to limit access to backup systems, and monitoring for suspicious database query patterns. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper input validation and parameterized queries as recommended by OWASP and other security standards. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify similar flaws in other applications and ensure that all database interactions properly validate and sanitize user inputs to prevent similar injection attacks.