CVE-2021-26597 in NetAct
Summary
by MITRE • 03/25/2021
An issue was discovered in Nokia NetAct 18A. A remote user, authenticated to the NOKIA NetAct Web Page, can visit the Site Configuration Tool web site section and arbitrarily upload potentially dangerous files without restrictions via the /netact/sct dir parameter in conjunction with the operation=upload value.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/05/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-26597 resides within Nokia NetAct 18A, a comprehensive network management platform widely deployed in telecommunications environments. This critical security flaw manifests as an improper access control vulnerability that allows authenticated remote attackers to bypass file upload restrictions within the Site Configuration Tool component. The vulnerability specifically exploits the /netact/sct directory parameter when combined with the operation=upload value, creating an unrestricted file upload condition that can be leveraged by malicious actors.
This security weakness represents a classic example of insufficient input validation and inadequate file handling mechanisms within web applications. The vulnerability stems from the lack of proper file type validation and sanitization processes that should normally prevent the upload of potentially dangerous file formats such as executable scripts, web shells, or other malicious payloads. The flaw exists in the web interface's handling of file upload operations, where the system fails to properly verify the content and type of files being uploaded, allowing attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code on the target system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, particularly within telecommunications infrastructure environments where Nokia NetAct systems are deployed. An authenticated attacker with access to the web interface can upload malicious files that could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or service disruption. The vulnerability enables potential privilege escalation and lateral movement within the network, as the compromised system could serve as a foothold for further attacks. This weakness directly aligns with CWE-434 which categorizes insecure file upload vulnerabilities and maps to ATT&CK technique T1195.001 for the use of web shell uploads and T1059.001 for command and script injection.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires only a valid authenticated session to the Nokia NetAct web interface, making it particularly dangerous as it does not require specialized attack tools or extensive reconnaissance. Once successfully exploited, attackers can upload web shells or other malicious payloads that provide persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability affects the Site Configuration Tool component which is integral to network management operations, potentially allowing attackers to modify network configurations, access sensitive operational data, or disrupt network services. Organizations utilizing Nokia NetAct 18A should immediately implement mitigations including restricting file upload functionality, implementing strict file type validation, and applying the vendor-provided security patches. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of proper access controls and input validation in web applications, particularly in mission-critical infrastructure environments where system compromise could have significant operational and security implications.