CVE-2017-9822 in DotNetNuke
Summary
by MITRE
DNN (aka DotNetNuke) before 9.1.1 has Remote Code Execution via a ccokie, aka "2017-08 (Critical) Possible remote code execution on DNN sites."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/13/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2017-9822 represents a critical remote code execution flaw in DNN (DotNetNuke) platforms prior to version 9.1.1, specifically exploiting a cookie handling mechanism that allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-20 category, representing improper input validation, and demonstrates how insecure cookie processing can lead to complete system compromise. The flaw resides in the platform's authentication and session management mechanisms where improperly validated cookie data can be manipulated to execute malicious payloads.
The technical exploitation occurs through a specially crafted cookie value that bypasses normal authentication checks and allows arbitrary code execution within the context of the web application. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload and execute malicious files, gain persistent access to the server, and potentially escalate privileges within the DNN environment. The vulnerability specifically affects the way the platform processes certain cookie values during authentication flows, creating a path for remote attackers to bypass security controls without requiring valid credentials. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1566.001 for credential harvesting through social engineering.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, as it enables attackers to gain complete control over affected DNN installations. Organizations running vulnerable versions face risks including data theft, service disruption, lateral movement within networks, and potential use as a foothold for broader attacks. The vulnerability affects not just individual websites but entire DNN ecosystems, potentially compromising multiple sites hosted on the same infrastructure. System administrators may experience unauthorized access to sensitive user data, modification of website content, and complete system compromise without detection.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-9822 require immediate patching to DNN version 9.1.1 or later, which addresses the cookie validation issues and implements proper input sanitization. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to DNN applications, monitor for unusual cookie patterns in web server logs, and conduct thorough security assessments of their DNN installations. Additional protective measures include implementing web application firewalls, disabling unnecessary authentication mechanisms, and establishing robust monitoring protocols to detect exploitation attempts. Security teams should also review and update their incident response procedures to address potential compromise scenarios and ensure rapid remediation when such vulnerabilities are discovered in their environments.