CVE-2017-2306 in Junos Space
Summary
by MITRE
On Juniper Networks Junos Space versions prior to 16.1R1, due to an insufficient authorization check, readonly users on the Junos Space administrative web interface can execute code on the device.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/31/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-2306 represents a critical authorization bypass flaw within Juniper Networks Junos Space platform versions prior to 16.1R1. This issue stems from inadequate access control mechanisms that fail to properly validate user permissions before executing privileged operations. The flaw specifically affects the administrative web interface where readonly users should theoretically possess limited access privileges but can exploit this vulnerability to escalate their privileges and execute arbitrary code on the target device. The root cause lies in the insufficient authorization checks that govern user interactions with the web interface components, allowing unauthorized code execution through what should be restricted administrative functions. This vulnerability directly impacts the principle of least privilege and undermines the security model of the Junos Space platform.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through a flaw in the web application's authentication and authorization framework where readonly user sessions can be manipulated to bypass normal access controls. When a readonly user attempts to perform certain operations within the Junos Space administrative interface, the system fails to properly verify whether the user has adequate permissions to execute the requested functionality. This authorization bypass allows malicious users to inject and execute code on the underlying device, effectively transforming a limited access account into a full administrative privilege level. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and leverages weaknesses in session management and privilege validation mechanisms that should prevent unauthorized code execution. The flaw demonstrates a classic case of insufficient authorization checks as classified under CWE-285, which specifically addresses improper authorization in software applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-2306 extends far beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with complete control over affected Junos Space devices and their underlying network infrastructure. Once exploited, attackers can execute arbitrary code with the highest privilege level available on the system, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, network disruption, and lateral movement within the affected network environment. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on Junos Space for network management and monitoring, creating potential exposure across multiple network segments and devices under management. This flaw can be particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where Junos Space serves as a central management platform for critical network infrastructure, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive network configurations and operational data.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigation strategies including immediate patching to Junos Space versions 16.1R1 or later, which contain the necessary authorization fixes. Network segmentation should be implemented to limit access to Junos Space administrative interfaces, while strict access controls and monitoring should be enforced for all administrative accounts. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar authorization bypass vulnerabilities within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and privilege escalation, demonstrating how insufficient authorization controls can lead to unauthorized system access and code execution. Additionally, this vulnerability exemplifies the importance of implementing proper input validation and access control mechanisms as recommended by security frameworks such as NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001, which emphasize the need for robust authorization controls in network management systems.