CVE-2017-6668 in Unified Communications Domain Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerabilities in the web-based GUI of Cisco Unified Communications Domain Manager (CUCDM) could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to impact the confidentiality of the system by executing arbitrary SQL queries, aka SQL Injection. More Information: CSCvc52784 CSCvc97648. Known Affected Releases: 8.1(7)ER1.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-6668 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the web-based graphical user interface of Cisco Unified Communications Domain Manager version 8.1(7)ER1. This vulnerability exists in the authentication and authorization mechanisms of the web interface, creating a pathway for authenticated remote attackers to exploit the system's database layer. The flaw specifically affects the CUCDM's handling of user input within the web GUI, where insufficient validation allows maliciously crafted input to be directly passed to underlying database queries without proper sanitization or parameterization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the web application's backend processing logic. When authenticated users interact with the web interface, certain parameters are not adequately sanitized before being incorporated into SQL command structures. This allows an attacker who has already established valid credentials to manipulate database queries through crafted input fields, potentially enabling unauthorized data access, modification, or extraction. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and specifically targets the database communication mechanisms used by the CUCDM system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data confidentiality concerns, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform arbitrary database operations. An authenticated attacker could potentially extract sensitive information from the CUCDM database, including user credentials, system configurations, and communication data. The attack vector requires only network access and valid authentication credentials, making it particularly dangerous in environments where administrative access might be compromised. This vulnerability essentially undermines the integrity of the system's access controls and data protection mechanisms.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws in software applications. The flaw demonstrates the classic pattern of insufficient input validation combined with improper database query construction, creating a persistent threat that can be exploited by attackers with minimal additional privileges. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving credential access and data extraction through application layer attacks. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying Cisco's security patches, implementing network segmentation to limit access to the affected system, and conducting thorough vulnerability assessments to identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of input validation and proper database query construction in preventing privilege escalation and data compromise scenarios.