CVE-2017-2179 in AppGoat for Web Application
Summary
by MITRE
Hands-on Vulnerability Learning Tool "AppGoat" for Web Application V3.0.2 and earlier allows remote code execution via unspecified vectors, a different vulnerability than CVE-2017-2181 and CVE-2017-2182.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/16/2019
The CVE-2017-2179 vulnerability affects the Hands-on Vulnerability Learning Tool known as AppGoat version 3.0.2 and earlier, which serves as an educational platform for web application security testing. This tool is designed to help security professionals and students learn about various web application vulnerabilities in a controlled environment. However, the vulnerability presents a significant security risk as it enables remote code execution through unspecified attack vectors that differ from other related vulnerabilities in the same product line. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw means that an attacker could potentially execute arbitrary code on the target system without requiring physical access or authentication, making it particularly dangerous in environments where such tools are used for security training.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from the unspecified vectors that allow for remote code execution within the AppGoat web application framework. While the exact implementation details are not provided in the CVE description, such vulnerabilities typically arise from improper input validation, insecure deserialization, or inadequate sanitization of user-supplied data. The fact that this vulnerability is distinct from CVE-2017-2181 and CVE-2017-2182 indicates that it represents a separate code path or component within the application that has been improperly secured. This suggests that the vulnerability may involve a specific function or module within the web application that handles user inputs or processes external data without adequate security controls. The vulnerability's presence in a learning tool creates a particularly concerning scenario since such platforms are often used in educational environments and may be exposed to various user inputs, potentially creating an attack surface that could be exploited by malicious actors.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-2179 extends beyond the immediate security implications of remote code execution. In educational environments where AppGoat is deployed, this vulnerability could allow attackers to gain full control over the training platform, potentially compromising the integrity of the entire security learning environment. The attack surface is further expanded when considering that these learning tools are often connected to networks and may contain sensitive educational materials or serve as testbeds for various security scenarios. Organizations using this tool could face unauthorized access to their training systems, data exfiltration, or even the potential for attackers to use the compromised platform as a launch point for further attacks against other systems within the network. The vulnerability's classification under CWE categories related to improper input validation or code execution further emphasizes the severity of the threat, as these weaknesses can enable attackers to escalate privileges and gain complete system control.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-2179 should focus on immediate remediation through patching and updating the AppGoat application to versions that address the vulnerability. Organizations should implement network segmentation to isolate the vulnerable learning platform from critical network infrastructure and limit access to authorized personnel only. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts, including unusual network connections or file system modifications. Access controls should be strengthened to ensure that only authorized users can interact with the platform, and regular security assessments should be conducted to identify any additional vulnerabilities within the system. The vulnerability's nature as a remote code execution flaw also necessitates implementing application firewalls and intrusion detection systems that can monitor for malicious payloads and prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider the broader security implications of using vulnerable educational tools in production environments, as these platforms may inadvertently expose organizations to additional attack vectors. The ATT&CK framework would classify this vulnerability under techniques related to remote code execution and privilege escalation, emphasizing the need for comprehensive defensive measures that address both the specific vulnerability and broader attack patterns that could exploit similar weaknesses.