CVE-2020-12349 in Data Center Manager Console
Summary
by MITRE • 11/13/2020
Improper input validation in the Intel(R) Data Center Manager Console before version 3.6.2 may allow an authenticated user to potentially enable information disclosure via network access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/06/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-12349 resides within the Intel Data Center Manager Console software ecosystem, specifically targeting versions prior to 3.6.2. This issue represents a critical weakness in the input validation mechanisms that govern how the console processes user-supplied data. The flaw manifests when an authenticated user leverages network access to exploit improper validation controls, creating a pathway for unauthorized information disclosure. The vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization and verification of input parameters, allowing maliciously crafted data to bypass security checks and potentially reveal sensitive system information. This type of vulnerability falls under the broader category of improper input validation flaws that are commonly classified under CWE-20, which represents one of the most prevalent software weaknesses in the industry. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it requires only authentication, meaning that any user with valid credentials can potentially exploit this weakness without requiring additional privileges or elevated access rights.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves an authenticated user sending specially crafted input through network interfaces to the Intel Data Center Manager Console. The console's failure to properly validate and sanitize incoming data allows the malicious input to be processed without adequate security checks, potentially leading to information disclosure. The nature of the vulnerability suggests that it may involve improper handling of user-supplied parameters, which could include form fields, API calls, or network protocol data. This weakness enables attackers to extract sensitive information such as system configurations, user credentials, or other confidential data that should remain protected within the secure environment. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it operates over network access, meaning that exploitation can occur from remote locations without requiring physical access to the system. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with techniques involving credential access and information gathering, potentially enabling adversaries to establish persistence and expand their access within the data center environment.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-12349 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the compromised data could provide attackers with insights into system architecture, configuration details, and potential security weaknesses. Organizations using Intel Data Center Manager Console versions prior to 3.6.2 face significant risks including unauthorized access to sensitive operational data, potential compromise of system integrity, and exposure of critical infrastructure information. The vulnerability's potential for remote exploitation means that attackers can leverage this weakness without requiring physical presence or complex attack chains. Security teams must consider that this vulnerability could serve as a stepping stone for more sophisticated attacks, potentially enabling further exploitation through privilege escalation or lateral movement within the data center network. The impact is particularly severe in enterprise environments where data center managers handle critical infrastructure monitoring and control, as the disclosure of sensitive information could compromise entire operational frameworks. Organizations should recognize that this vulnerability aligns with the broader threat landscape where weak input validation leads to cascading security issues, making it essential to address immediately through proper patch management and configuration updates.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-12349 center on upgrading to Intel Data Center Manager Console version 3.6.2 or later, which includes proper input validation controls and security enhancements. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all systems running the affected software receive timely updates. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit the potential impact of any successful exploitation attempts. Additionally, monitoring systems should be configured to detect unusual network traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should conduct regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar weaknesses in other components of their data center infrastructure. The implementation of web application firewalls and input validation controls at multiple layers can provide additional defense in depth. Organizations should also review their authentication mechanisms and ensure that proper access controls are in place to minimize the risk of unauthorized access. Regular security awareness training for system administrators and operators can help prevent social engineering attacks that might exploit this vulnerability. Compliance with industry standards such as NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001 should include specific controls addressing input validation and information disclosure prevention. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining current security practices and the critical need for regular security assessments to identify and remediate potential weaknesses in complex enterprise environments.