CVE-2017-5786 in OfficeConnect Network Switch
Summary
by MITRE
A local Unauthorized Data Modification vulnerability in HPE OfficeConnect Network Switches version PT.02.01 including PT.01.03 through PT.01.14
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/13/2020
The CVE-2017-5786 vulnerability represents a critical local unauthorized data modification flaw affecting HPE OfficeConnect Network Switches running firmware versions PT.02.01 and PT.01.03 through PT.01.14. This vulnerability resides within the switch's configuration management system and allows attackers with local access to manipulate network settings and device configurations without proper authentication. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and inadequate access controls within the switch's command processing mechanisms, creating a pathway for malicious modification of critical network parameters.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a lack of proper privilege checking during configuration modification operations. When administrative commands are processed locally, the system fails to validate whether the executing user possesses sufficient privileges to perform the requested modifications. This weakness enables attackers to inject malicious configuration changes through crafted command sequences or by exploiting the switch's command-line interface. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-284 Access Control Issues, specifically addressing inadequate privileges for critical operations. Attackers can leverage this flaw to modify network policies, alter port configurations, change VLAN settings, or manipulate routing tables, potentially leading to network disruption or unauthorized access points.
Operationally, this vulnerability poses significant risks to enterprise network infrastructure as it allows attackers who gain physical or local network access to compromise switch configurations. The impact extends beyond simple data modification since network switches serve as fundamental components in network segmentation and security policy enforcement. An attacker could potentially create backdoor access points, disable security features, or redirect network traffic to facilitate further attacks. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where physical security is inadequate or where unauthorized personnel might gain access to network equipment. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1068 Valid Accounts and T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter techniques, as it enables local privilege escalation and command execution through legitimate system interfaces.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-5786 require immediate firmware updates from HPE to address the underlying access control flaws. Network administrators should implement strict physical access controls to prevent unauthorized individuals from gaining local access to network switches. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary local administrative interfaces, implementing robust logging and monitoring of configuration changes, and conducting regular security assessments of network infrastructure. Organizations should also consider network segmentation strategies to limit the potential impact of compromised switches and establish incident response procedures specifically addressing network device compromise scenarios. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date firmware and implementing defense-in-depth strategies to protect critical network infrastructure components from local attack vectors.