CVE-2018-7066 in ClearPass Policy Manager
Summary
by MITRE
An unauthenticated remote command execution exists in Aruba ClearPass Policy Manager on linked devices. The ClearPass OnConnect feature permits administrators to link other network devices into ClearPass for the purpose of collecting enhanced information about connected endpoints. A defect in the API could allow a remote attacker to execute arbitrary commands on one of the linked devices. This vulnerability is only applicable if credentials for devices have been supplied to ClearPass under Configuration -> Network -> Devices -> CLI Settings. Resolution: Fixed in 6.7.5 and 6.6.10-hotfix.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/19/2020
The CVE-2018-7066 vulnerability represents a critical remote command execution flaw in Aruba ClearPass Policy Manager that exploits a weakness in the OnConnect feature implementation. This vulnerability specifically targets the API interface used for managing linked network devices within the ClearPass environment, creating a pathway for unauthenticated remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on connected network infrastructure. The flaw exists within the authentication and authorization mechanisms that govern how ClearPass interacts with external devices, particularly when those devices have been configured with CLI credentials within the ClearPass system. The vulnerability's exploitation potential is significantly amplified because it does not require authentication to the ClearPass management interface itself, making it particularly dangerous in environments where network devices are linked without proper security controls.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and access control enforcement within the ClearPass API endpoints responsible for device management operations. When administrators configure network devices through the ClearPass interface by providing CLI credentials under Configuration -> Network -> Devices -> CLI Settings, the system stores these credentials in a manner that allows for unauthorized command execution. The vulnerability specifically affects how ClearPass processes API requests related to device communication, where insufficient sanitization of input parameters enables attackers to inject malicious commands that are then executed on the target network devices. This flaw aligns with CWE-77 and CWE-89 categories, representing command injection vulnerabilities that bypass normal access controls and authentication mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass significant network compromise potential. Attackers who exploit this vulnerability can gain unauthorized access to network devices that are part of the ClearPass ecosystem, potentially allowing them to manipulate device configurations, extract sensitive information, or establish persistent access points within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability's scope is particularly concerning because it affects devices that are already trusted by the ClearPass system, meaning that successful exploitation could provide attackers with elevated privileges and access to critical network components. This represents a significant risk to network security posture as it allows attackers to move laterally within networks where ClearPass is deployed, potentially compromising multiple devices and systems that rely on the ClearPass policy management framework.
Organizations utilizing Aruba ClearPass Policy Manager should prioritize immediate implementation of the vendor-provided patches, specifically versions 6.7.5 and 6.6.10-hotfix, which address the underlying API security flaws. The recommended mitigation strategy includes not only applying the security updates but also reviewing and strengthening the configuration of device credentials within ClearPass to minimize the attack surface. Network administrators should implement additional monitoring controls to detect anomalous API activity and command execution patterns on linked devices. The vulnerability's exploitation characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1059, specifically command and scripting interpreter, as attackers can leverage the API to execute arbitrary commands on target systems. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation strategies to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation and ensure that only authorized personnel have access to the CLI credential configuration sections of ClearPass. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and access control implementation in API security, particularly when dealing with privileged operations that involve external device management and configuration.