CVE-2017-17733 in MacCMS
Summary
by MITRE
Maccms 8.x allows remote command execution via the wd parameter in an index.php?m=vod-search request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/19/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-17733 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within Maccms 8.x content management systems. This vulnerability exists in the handling of user-supplied input through the wd parameter within the index.php?m=vod-search request structure. The flaw allows attackers to inject and execute arbitrary commands on the target server, potentially leading to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the application's search functionality. When the wd parameter is processed, the system fails to properly filter or escape user input, creating an injection point that can be exploited to execute malicious commands. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-77 which specifically addresses command injection flaws, where untrusted data is directly incorporated into command execution contexts without proper validation or sanitization.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web application. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access, deploy malware, modify or delete content, and potentially use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires no authentication and can be exploited through simple HTTP requests, making it highly accessible to threat actors.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically under the T1059 technique for command and scripting interpreter, where adversaries use legitimate system utilities to execute malicious commands. The vulnerability also aligns with T1190 for exploitation of remote services, as it allows remote attackers to exploit a service running on the target system without requiring physical access or prior authentication. Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation through patching the affected Maccms version and implementing proper input validation mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies should include applying the latest security patches from the Maccms vendor, implementing web application firewalls to filter malicious requests, and conducting thorough input validation to prevent command injection attacks. Additionally, network segmentation and privilege separation can limit the potential damage from successful exploitation. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be performed to identify similar weaknesses in other applications and systems within the organization's infrastructure.