CVE-2017-8968 in RESTful Interface Tool
Summary
by MITRE
A remote execution of arbitrary code vulnerability has been identified in HPE RESTful Interface Tool 1.5, 2.0 (hprest-1.5-79.x86_64.rpm, ilorest-2.0-403.x86_64.rpm). The issue is resolved in iLOREST v2.1 or subsequent versions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/13/2020
The vulnerability identified in CVE-2017-8968 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within HPE RESTful Interface Tool versions 1.5 and 2.0, specifically affecting the hprest-1.5-79.x86_64.rpm and ilorest-2.0-403.x86_64.rpm packages. This vulnerability resides in the HPE RESTful Interface Tool, a command-line utility designed to interact with HPE iLO (integrated Lights-Out) management processors for remote server administration. The flaw allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on systems running vulnerable versions of the tool, potentially enabling full compromise of managed servers. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it affects the foundational management interface used for critical infrastructure administration, creating a potential attack vector for unauthorized access to enterprise server environments.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the RESTful Interface Tool's processing mechanisms. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious input parameters that bypass normal validation checks and are subsequently executed as commands within the tool's operational context. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-74, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in data queries, and CWE-94, which addresses the execution of arbitrary code. The flaw essentially allows for command injection attacks where attacker-controlled input is interpreted and executed by the underlying system processes without proper sanitization or validation. The vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution issue because the malicious input can be delivered over network connections without requiring local access to the target system.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-8968 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with potentially complete control over managed servers through the iLO management interface. This vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that could allow attackers to establish backdoors, escalate privileges, or deploy additional malware within the enterprise network. The affected systems are particularly vulnerable in environments where the RESTful Interface Tool is actively used for server management, as it represents a common administrative interface that may be accessible from external networks. Organizations using vulnerable versions face significant risk of unauthorized access to their server infrastructure, potentially leading to data breaches, service disruption, or further lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability also impacts the integrity of the management chain, as attackers could modify or corrupt system configurations through the compromised interface.
Organizations should immediately upgrade to iLOREST version 2.1 or later to address this vulnerability, as this represents the official fix provided by HPE. The mitigation strategy involves not only software updates but also network segmentation of management interfaces to limit exposure to untrusted networks. Security teams should implement monitoring for unusual network activity related to iLO management interfaces and consider disabling unnecessary management services when possible. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining current software versions and implementing proper patch management procedures for administrative tools. Organizations should review their access controls for management interfaces and ensure that only authorized personnel can access these critical systems. Additionally, network perimeter controls should be enhanced to restrict access to iLO management interfaces, as these interfaces often represent high-value targets for attackers seeking to compromise enterprise infrastructure. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of securing management interfaces and maintaining up-to-date security practices for all administrative tools used in enterprise environments.