Description
A critical vulnerability has been identified in the EXEC_CMD component of HP Data Protector, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary Perl code via a crafted command.
Affected Product(s)
- HP Data Protector versions 6.10, 6.11, 7.0, 7.03, 7.03_108, 8.0, 8.14, 8.15, 8.17, 9.0, 9.05, 9.06, and 9.09
Technical Details
The HP Data Protector software is widely used for backup and recovery in enterprise environments, managing both physical and virtual servers from disk and tape. A critical vulnerability (CVE-2011-0923) was found in the EXEC_CMD function of the HP Data Protector client, affecting multiple versions, as listed above.
The vulnerability stems from improper input validation in the EXEC_CMD arguments. Specifically, the client does not thoroughly validate inputs passed to the EXEC_CMD function, which allows an attacker to send a specially crafted command that includes executable Perl code. The execution of this Perl code can lead to unauthorized control over the system.
The issue lies within the “local bin directory” where commands are processed. Entry points affected include both the client and the server components of HP Data Protector. Remote attackers can exploit this by sending a command to the vulnerable HP Data Protector service, which in turn processes it without adequate validation, resulting in the execution of unintended scripts or commands.
Several exploit scripts have been documented for this vulnerability. For instance, a Metasploit module is available that takes advantage of the vulnerability on Windows systems, sending EXEC_CMD packets to ‘omniinet.exe’ to initiate commands. The flow of exploiting involves utilizing the kernel32!FindFirstFileW() function to locate files and execute CreateProcess() under new threads. Furthermore, there are known exploits for Unix-based systems where similar sequences allow remote command execution under root context.
Implementations of these exploits include both shell scripts and Python scripts that make use of the installed Perl interpreter to operate beyond typical limitations. Historically, several exploits have been recognized for this vulnerability across different platforms (e.g., RCE, WebApp exploits). These exploits highlight numerous methodologies such as bypassing input validation, leveraging misconfigured services, and employing malformed command packets to achieve execution.
Exploiters abusing this vulnerability can gain the ability to perform arbitrary shell commands with elevated privileges, access sensitive data, alter configurations, or even install malicious software. Given the vulnerability’s high CVSS score of 10.0, it signifies an immediate need for mitigation and patch application to prevent potential breaches.
Weakness
The HP Data Protector vulnerability is chiefly associated with weakness CWE-20: Improper Input Validation. This type of weakness arises when the software does not adequately validate the syntax and content of input data, leading to unintended commands and code execution on the target system.
Impact Assessment
If exploited, this vulnerability could allow an attacker to gain unauthorized control of the affected system. This could entail executing arbitrary commands or scripts, accessing or modifying sensitive data, and possibly disrupting service operations.
Active Exploitation
There have been multiple reports and proof-of-concept exploits detailing how this vulnerability can be leveraged for remote code execution. We have observed activity where threat actors use crafted packets to exploit the EXEC_CMD weakness, achieving command execution across various system configurations.
Ransomware Association
To date, there has been no specific ransomware tied directly to this vulnerability. However, vulnerabilities similar in nature have been utilized in ransomware attacks where initial access was gained through remote code execution.
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Mitigation and Resolution
We have released patches addressing this vulnerability. All customers using affected versions of HP Data Protector are strongly urged to update to the newest versions or apply the latest patches immediately.
Recommendations
- We strongly recommend that all customers apply the latest patch as soon as possible.
- Validate that the versions are updated to the latest patched releases.
- Restrict network access to the HP Data Protector service to trusted users.
- Regularly audit and monitor the logging of the system for any suspicious activities.
- Maintain updated antivirus and antimalware definitions.
- Disable unnecessary services to minimize the attack surface.
ย Referencesย
- CVE MITRE Details
- NVD Details
- Blog
- HP OpenView Storage Data Protector Security Bulletin
- HP Data Protector PoC 1
- HP Data Protector PoC 2
- HP Data Protector PoC 3
- Security Focus Advisory
- Vupen Advisory
- Zero Day Initiative Advisory