CVE-2017-6636 in Prime Collaboration Provisioning
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability in the web interface of Cisco Prime Collaboration Provisioning Software (prior to Release 11.1) could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to view any file on an affected system. The vulnerability exists because the affected software does not perform proper input validation of HTTP requests and fails to apply role-based access controls (RBACs) to requested HTTP URLs. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending a crafted HTTP request that uses directory traversal techniques to submit a path to a desired file location on an affected system. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to view any file on the system. Cisco Bug IDs: CSCvc99604.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/25/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-6636 affects Cisco Prime Collaboration Provisioning Software versions prior to Release 11.1, representing a critical security flaw in the web interface component. This issue stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the software's HTTP request processing functionality, creating an exploitable condition that allows authenticated remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the affected system. The vulnerability specifically manifests due to the software's failure to properly implement role-based access controls for HTTP URL requests, effectively bypassing the intended security boundaries that should restrict file access based on user privileges.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on directory traversal techniques that enable attackers to manipulate HTTP requests to access files outside of the intended directory structure. By crafting specially formatted HTTP requests containing directory traversal sequences such as "../", attackers can navigate through the file system hierarchy and retrieve sensitive information from locations that should normally be restricted. This flaw directly relates to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal vulnerabilities. The vulnerability essentially allows attackers to bypass the software's intended file access controls and potentially obtain confidential data, configuration files, or system information that could aid in further exploitation attempts.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations utilizing Cisco Prime Collaboration Provisioning Software, as it enables authenticated attackers to gain unauthorized access to potentially sensitive information stored on the system. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as attackers could potentially access system configuration files, user credentials, or other sensitive data that could be leveraged for additional attacks. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the system's data, potentially compromising the overall security posture of the network infrastructure that relies on this provisioning software for collaboration services.
Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation by upgrading to Cisco Prime Collaboration Provisioning Software Release 11.1 or later, which includes the necessary security patches to address this vulnerability. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can help limit the potential impact of exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual HTTP request patterns that might indicate directory traversal attempts. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083, which covers the discovery of files and directories, and T1078, which addresses valid accounts for maintaining access. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and input validation controls to prevent similar issues in other applications and systems within their infrastructure.