CVE-2017-2320 in NorthStar Controller Application
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability in Juniper Networks NorthStar Controller Application prior to version 2.1.0 Service Pack 1 may allow an unauthenticated, unprivileged, network-based attacker to cause various denials of services leading to targeted information disclosure, modification of any component of the NorthStar system, including managed systems, and full denial of services to any systems under management which NorthStar interacts with using read-only or read-write credentials.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/24/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-2320 represents a critical security flaw within Juniper Networks NorthStar Controller Application affecting versions prior to 2.1.0 Service Pack 1. This weakness stems from inadequate authentication and authorization mechanisms that permit unauthorized network-based attackers to exploit the system without requiring valid credentials or elevated privileges. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and specifically targets the NorthStar controller's interaction with managed network systems, creating a significant attack surface that can be leveraged for various malicious activities.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows attackers to exploit the NorthStar controller's communication protocols and management interfaces without proper authentication. This flaw enables attackers to manipulate system components through read-only or read-write credentials, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple denial of service, as it provides attackers with the capability to modify any component of the NorthStar system including managed systems, creating opportunities for persistent access and data manipulation. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it requires no authentication credentials and can be executed from network-based positions, making it accessible to attackers with minimal technical expertise.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-2320 is severe and multifaceted, encompassing complete denial of service conditions, targeted information disclosure, and unauthorized modification of system components. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to disrupt network operations entirely, potentially causing widespread service outages across managed systems. The ability to modify system components means that attackers could alter network configurations, manipulate routing decisions, or compromise the integrity of network management processes. Furthermore, the vulnerability's potential for information disclosure creates opportunities for attackers to extract sensitive network data, configuration details, or operational information that could be used for further attacks or system compromise.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control issues in software systems, and represents a classic case of insufficient authentication mechanisms. The attack patterns associated with this flaw correspond to techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the Initial Access and Persistence domains, where attackers can establish unauthorized access to network infrastructure and maintain long-term control over managed systems. Organizations implementing Juniper NorthStar controllers should prioritize immediate remediation through the application of Service Pack 1 or equivalent security updates, alongside network segmentation and monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing robust network access controls to prevent unauthorized manipulation of critical network infrastructure components.