CVE-2017-7307 in RIOS
Summary
by MITRE
Riverbed RiOS before 9.0.1 does not properly restrict shell access in single-user mode, which makes it easier for physically proximate attackers to obtain root privileges and access decrypted data by replacing the /opt/tms/bin/cli file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/25/2020
The vulnerability described in CVE-2017-7307 affects Riverbed RiOS versions prior to 9.0.1 and represents a critical security flaw in the system's single-user mode implementation. This issue stems from insufficient restrictions on shell access during single-user boot processes, creating a significant attack vector for adversaries who have physical proximity to the affected system. The vulnerability specifically targets the system's privilege escalation mechanisms and data protection controls, making it particularly dangerous in environments where physical security cannot be guaranteed.
The technical flaw manifests in the improper handling of shell access permissions within single-user mode, where attackers can exploit this weakness to gain root privileges without proper authentication mechanisms. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows attackers to replace critical system files, specifically targeting the /opt/tms/bin/cli file which serves as a command-line interface component. This file replacement capability directly enables privilege escalation from a standard user account to root level access, bypassing normal authentication and authorization controls. The flaw operates at the operating system level, leveraging weaknesses in the boot process and file system permissions that should normally prevent such modifications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it enables attackers to access decrypted data that would otherwise remain protected by the system's normal security controls. Once root privileges are obtained through this method, attackers can manipulate system configurations, extract sensitive information, and potentially compromise the entire network infrastructure. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires minimal prerequisites - only physical proximity to the device and basic knowledge of the system's boot process. This makes it an attractive target for insider threats or attackers who have gained physical access to network equipment, potentially leading to data breaches, system compromise, and extended network infiltration.
The security implications extend beyond immediate privilege escalation to encompass broader system integrity concerns and data confidentiality risks. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-284 (Improper Access Control) and represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege, as the system fails to properly enforce access restrictions during critical boot phases. From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to multiple ATT&CK techniques including privilege escalation through exploitation of system boot processes and access to sensitive data through root-level access. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to Riverbed RiOS version 9.0.1 or later, enforcing physical security controls, and implementing monitoring for unauthorized file system modifications. Additional protective measures should include disabling single-user mode when not required, implementing strong physical access controls, and conducting regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in network infrastructure components.