CVE-2020-24649 in Intelligent Management Center
Summary
by MITRE • 10/20/2020
A remote bytemessageresource transformentity" input validation code execution vulnerability was discovered in HPE Intelligent Management Center (iMC) version(s): Prior to iMC PLAT 7.3 (E0705P07).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/21/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-24649 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within HPE Intelligent Management Center (iMC) platforms. This issue affects versions prior to iMC PLAT 7.3 E0705P07, specifically targeting the remote bytemessageresource transformentity component. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before processing. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious inputs that bypass validation checks, ultimately leading to arbitrary code execution on the affected system. The vulnerability resides in the data processing pipeline where byte message resources are transformed, creating a pathway for remote attackers to inject and execute malicious code without authentication.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which describes improper input validation as a fundamental weakness in software security design. The flaw operates through a classic buffer overflow or injection pattern where unvalidated byte stream data is processed through transformation functions. When the system receives crafted input through the bytemessageresource transformentity interface, it fails to properly validate the data boundaries and content, allowing attackers to manipulate the transformation process. This creates an execution environment where malicious payloads can be interpreted and executed with the privileges of the affected service account, typically running with elevated system permissions. The vulnerability's remote nature means attackers can exploit it from outside the network perimeter, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-24649 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to network infrastructure managed by iMC. This vulnerability can enable lateral movement within networks, data exfiltration, and the establishment of persistent backdoors. Organizations using affected iMC versions face significant risk of compromise, particularly in environments where the platform manages critical network operations, device monitoring, and system administration tasks. The vulnerability's exploitation can result in complete system takeover, allowing attackers to modify network configurations, access sensitive data, and potentially disrupt business operations. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for remote code execution and T1078 for valid accounts usage, highlighting both the execution and privilege escalation aspects of the threat.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-24649 require immediate action from affected organizations to upgrade to iMC PLAT 7.3 E0705P07 or later versions that contain the necessary security patches. Network segmentation should be implemented to limit access to iMC systems, particularly restricting direct internet exposure where possible. Organizations should also deploy intrusion detection systems capable of identifying exploitation attempts through anomalous byte stream patterns. Additionally, implementing strict input validation controls and monitoring for unusual data transformation activities can help detect potential exploitation attempts. Security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments of their iMC deployments and consider temporary network restrictions until full patches are deployed. Regular security updates and patch management processes should be strengthened to prevent similar vulnerabilities from remaining unaddressed in future releases.