CVE-2018-11167 in DR Series Disk Backup
Summary
by MITRE
Quest DR Series Disk Backup software version before 4.0.3.1 allows command injection (issue 25 of 46).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/19/2023
The Quest DR Series Disk Backup software vulnerability CVE-2018-11167 represents a critical command injection flaw that affects versions prior to 4.0.3.1 within the broader context of enterprise backup and disaster recovery solutions. This vulnerability manifests as a security weakness in the software's handling of user-supplied input, specifically within the command execution mechanisms that process backup and restore operations. The issue falls under the broader category of insufficient input validation and improper input sanitization, which are fundamental security principles that should be enforced at every layer of software development. The vulnerability exists in the software's ability to properly validate and sanitize command parameters that are passed to underlying system commands, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject arbitrary commands that execute with the privileges of the affected service.
This command injection vulnerability stems from the software's failure to properly sanitize input parameters that are used in system command construction, allowing attackers to manipulate the execution flow of backup operations. The flaw specifically impacts the disk backup functionality where user-provided parameters are directly incorporated into system commands without adequate sanitization or escaping mechanisms. According to CWE classification, this vulnerability maps to CWE-77 which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in commands, and CWE-94 which addresses improper control of generation of code. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited by remote attackers who do not require authentication to the system, making it a significant risk for organizations that expose backup infrastructure to external networks. The attack surface is expanded due to the nature of backup systems being integral to enterprise infrastructure and often having elevated privileges to access critical data and system resources.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-11167 extends beyond simple data compromise to encompass potential system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities for attackers. When successfully exploited, this vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the target system, potentially leading to complete system takeover, data encryption for ransomware attacks, or unauthorized data access. The implications are particularly severe for organizations relying on Quest DR Series for critical backup operations, as attackers could manipulate backup processes to overwrite legitimate backups, corrupt data, or establish persistent access points within the network. The vulnerability could be leveraged to escalate privileges, install backdoors, or perform reconnaissance activities that would otherwise be difficult to achieve through normal network access. Organizations with multiple backup systems or those using the software in automated backup scenarios face heightened risk, as the vulnerability could be exploited to disrupt critical backup operations or gain access to sensitive enterprise data.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-11167 should prioritize immediate software patching to version 4.0.3.1 or later, which addresses the command injection vulnerability through proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to backup systems and ensure that backup infrastructure is not directly exposed to untrusted networks. Additional protective measures include implementing strict input validation at all levels of the application, using parameterized commands instead of string concatenation, and regularly auditing backup system configurations for unauthorized changes. The vulnerability's exploitation risk aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreter, and T1078 which covers valid accounts, as attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute commands with elevated privileges and potentially maintain access. Security monitoring should focus on unusual backup process executions, command line arguments, and system access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments of backup infrastructure and implementation of principle of least privilege should be enforced to minimize the potential impact of such vulnerabilities. Organizations should also consider implementing backup system hardening measures, including disabling unnecessary services, restricting system command execution, and establishing robust access controls for backup operations.