CVE-2018-21023 in Web
Summary
by MITRE
getStats.php in Centreon Web before 2.8.28 allows authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code via the ns_id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/27/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-21023 affects Centreon Web versions prior to 2.8.28 and represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the getStats.php script. This issue arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly handle the ns_id parameter, creating a pathway for authenticated attackers to inject and execute malicious code on the target system. The vulnerability resides in the web-based management interface of Centreon, a widely used network and infrastructure monitoring solution that provides real-time visibility into network performance and system health.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through improper parameter handling where the ns_id input is directly incorporated into system commands without adequate sanitization or validation. Attackers who have authenticated access to the Centreon Web interface can manipulate the ns_id parameter to inject shell commands that are subsequently executed with the privileges of the web application user. This flaw falls under the category of command injection attacks and aligns with CWE-77 which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in a command. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires only authenticated access, meaning that an attacker who has obtained valid credentials can escalate their privileges and gain full control over the monitored network infrastructure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it allows attackers to establish persistent access to the monitoring environment and potentially pivot to other systems within the network. Since Centreon Web typically runs in enterprise environments with sensitive network monitoring data, successful exploitation could lead to complete compromise of the monitoring infrastructure, enabling attackers to manipulate alerts, hide malicious activities, or exfiltrate critical network information. The vulnerability affects the availability, integrity, and confidentiality of the monitored systems, making it a significant concern for organizations relying on Centreon for network security operations. This issue directly relates to ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1078.004 for valid accounts, as it leverages authenticated access to execute malicious commands.
Organizations should immediately implement the patch released by Centreon for version 2.8.28 which addresses the input validation issues in getStats.php. The mitigation strategy involves not only applying the official security update but also implementing network segmentation to limit access to the Centreon Web interface, enforcing strict access controls, and monitoring for suspicious command execution patterns. Additional protective measures include implementing web application firewalls, conducting regular security assessments of the monitoring infrastructure, and ensuring that only necessary users have access to the affected components. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in web applications and serves as a reminder of the critical need for secure coding practices in monitoring and management interfaces that handle user-supplied data. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management processes to ensure timely deployment of security updates and maintain comprehensive audit logs to detect potential exploitation attempts.