CVE-2019-12685 in FirePOWER Management Center
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple vulnerabilities in the web-based management interface of Cisco Firepower Management Center (FMC) Software could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to execute arbitrary SQL injections on an affected device. These vulnerabilities exist due to improper input validation. An attacker could exploit these vulnerabilities by sending crafted SQL queries to an affected device. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to view information that they are not authorized to view, make changes to the system that they are not authorized to make, and execute commands within the underlying operating system that may affect the availability of the device.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-12685 affects the web-based management interface of Cisco Firepower Management Center software, representing a critical security flaw that enables authenticated remote attackers to perform arbitrary SQL injection attacks. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the FMC software's web interface, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted input parameters. The affected system operates as a centralized management platform for Cisco's next-generation firewalls, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to compromise network security infrastructure. The vulnerability exists in the software's handling of user-supplied data within database interaction components, where insufficient sanitization allows malicious SQL commands to be executed within the underlying database context.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an authenticated attacker who can access the web-based management interface of the FMC device. Attackers can craft malicious SQL queries that bypass normal input validation checks and are then executed against the database backend. This allows for unauthorized data access, modification, and execution of commands within the operating system environment. The impact extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can enable attackers to gain elevated privileges and potentially compromise the entire network security infrastructure managed by the FMC. The vulnerability's severity is compounded by the fact that it affects a centralized management system that controls multiple firewalls, meaning a successful attack could provide access to an entire network security ecosystem. The SQL injection occurs at the application layer where user input is directly incorporated into database queries without proper sanitization or parameterization, creating a classic vulnerability pattern that aligns with CWE-89.
From an operational standpoint, the implications of CVE-2019-12685 are severe for organizations relying on Cisco Firepower Management Center for network security operations. The vulnerability could enable attackers to extract sensitive configuration data, user credentials, and network topology information that would otherwise remain protected. Additionally, attackers could modify firewall rules, disable security policies, or inject malicious configurations that could go undetected for extended periods. The ability to execute arbitrary commands within the operating system environment provides attackers with potential persistence mechanisms and escalation capabilities. This vulnerability directly impacts the confidentiality, integrity, and availability principles of information security, potentially leading to complete compromise of the network security infrastructure. Organizations may face regulatory compliance issues and significant operational disruption if such attacks occur, particularly in environments where the FMC manages critical network security controls.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying Cisco's security patches and updates to address the identified input validation flaws. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit access to the FMC management interface to authorized personnel only. Regular monitoring of system logs for unusual database activity and SQL query patterns should be implemented to detect potential exploitation attempts. The implementation of web application firewalls and input validation controls can provide additional layers of protection. Security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments of their FMC deployments and review access controls to ensure only necessary personnel have authentication credentials. Continuous monitoring and regular security audits of the management interface are essential to detect and respond to potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for SQL injection patterns and other malicious activities targeting the affected interface, aligning with recommended practices from the ATT&CK framework for defending against credential access and privilege escalation techniques.