CVE-2018-0464 in Data Center Network Manager
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability in Cisco Data Center Network Manager software could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to conduct directory traversal attacks and gain access to sensitive files on the targeted system. The vulnerability is due to improper validation of user requests within the management interface. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending malicious requests containing directory traversal character sequences within the management interface. An exploit could allow the attacker to view or create arbitrary files on the targeted system.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/22/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-0464 affects Cisco Data Center Network Manager software, representing a critical security flaw that enables authenticated remote attackers to perform directory traversal attacks. This vulnerability resides within the management interface of the software, where inadequate input validation permits malicious users to manipulate file access requests through carefully crafted directory traversal sequences. The flaw fundamentally compromises the integrity of the application's file system access controls, creating an avenue for unauthorized data exposure and potential system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of user-supplied input within the management interface components of Cisco Data Center Network Manager. When legitimate authenticated users submit requests containing directory traversal character sequences such as ../ or ..\, the application fails to properly sanitize or validate these inputs before processing file access operations. This deficiency allows attackers to navigate beyond the intended file system boundaries and access restricted directories, potentially gaining access to sensitive configuration files, system logs, or other confidential data that should remain protected from unauthorized access.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-0464 extends beyond simple file access violations, as it provides attackers with the capability to both read and write arbitrary files on the targeted system. This dual functionality enables a range of malicious activities including but not limited to data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and potential system compromise through the creation of malicious files or modification of existing system components. The vulnerability particularly affects organizations relying on Cisco Data Center Network Manager for their network infrastructure management, as successful exploitation could lead to complete compromise of the management interface and associated network resources.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including applying the official Cisco security patches released to address the directory traversal flaw, implementing network segmentation to limit access to the management interface, and conducting thorough access control reviews to ensure only authorized personnel can reach the vulnerable components. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal and follows patterns consistent with ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter, where attackers leverage legitimate system interfaces to execute malicious file operations. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls and input validation controls to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in other applications within their infrastructure.