CVE-2026-28517 in openDCIM
Summary
by MITRE • 02/28/2026
openDCIM version 23.04, through commit 4467e9c4, contains an OS command injection vulnerability in report_network_map.php. The application retrieves the 'dot' configuration parameter from the database and passes it directly to exec() without validation or sanitation. If an attacker can modify the fac_Config.dot value, arbitrary commands may be executed in the context of the web server process.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/10/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2026-28517 represents a critical operating system command injection flaw within the openDCIM network management system version 23.04. This issue stems from improper input validation and sanitization practices within the report_network_map.php component, which directly executes user-controllable data through the exec() function. The vulnerability manifests when the application retrieves the 'dot' configuration parameter from the database and passes it without any form of validation or sanitization to the system execution function. This design flaw creates a direct path for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary operating system commands with the privileges of the web server process. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows attackers to manipulate the fac_Config.dot value, which serves as a configuration parameter that should remain strictly controlled and validated.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of database configuration values, specifically targeting the dot parameter that controls network map generation functionality. When an attacker successfully modifies the fac_Config.dot value to include malicious command injection payloads, the application's failure to validate or sanitize this input results in direct execution of the crafted commands through the exec() function. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-77 and CWE-94 categories, representing command injection and code injection weaknesses respectively, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic lack of input validation and proper sanitization, where the application treats database-stored configuration values as trusted inputs without implementing appropriate security controls to prevent malicious command execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, potentially allowing attackers to gain full control over the affected system. Since the commands execute in the context of the web server process, attackers could access sensitive data, modify system configurations, install malware, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects the entire openDCIM installation, potentially compromising network infrastructure monitoring capabilities and exposing the underlying server to further attacks. Organizations using this version of openDCIM face significant risks including data breaches, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The impact is particularly severe in environments where openDCIM is used for critical network monitoring and management, as attackers could disrupt network operations or gain unauthorized access to sensitive network information.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2026-28517 should prioritize immediate implementation of input validation and sanitization measures to prevent command injection attacks. Organizations must ensure that all configuration parameters retrieved from databases undergo proper validation and sanitization before being passed to system execution functions. The recommended approach includes implementing proper parameter escaping, using secure coding practices that avoid direct command execution with user-controllable inputs, and applying the principle of least privilege to web server processes. Additionally, database access controls should be strengthened to prevent unauthorized modification of configuration parameters, and regular security audits should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities. Patch management procedures should be implemented to ensure timely updates to the openDCIM software, and network monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious command execution patterns. The vulnerability underscores the importance of proper input validation and the critical need for secure coding practices in web applications, particularly when handling system-level operations and database-stored configuration values.