CVE-2017-11614 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

MEDHOST Connex contains hard-coded credentials that pose a security risk, allowing unauthorized access to customer databases. Attackers with knowledge of these credentials can manipulate sensitive information, even if Connex is not installed.

Understanding CVE-2017-11614

What is CVE-2017-11614?

Hard-coded credentials in MEDHOST Connex can be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access to customer databases.
The credentials are stored in multiple locations within the application, with no option for customers to change them.
The IBM i DB2 user account named HMSCXPDN is used for database access, with a hard-coded password.

The Impact of CVE-2017-11614

Attackers can retrieve or manipulate sensitive patient and financial information if they have knowledge of the hard-coded credentials.
The HMSCXPDN account has elevated DB2 roles, providing unrestricted access to all objects and database tables in the customer's DB2 database.
Even customers without Connex installed are vulnerable as the MEDHOST setup program creates the HMSCXPDN account.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-11614

Vulnerability Description

Hard-coded credentials in MEDHOST Connex pose a security risk, allowing unauthorized access to customer databases.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: n/a
Vendor: n/a
Version: n/a

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with knowledge of the hard-coded credentials and direct communication with the database can exploit the vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Monitor database access and look for any unauthorized activities.
Contact MEDHOST for guidance on securing the hard-coded credentials.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong password policies and regularly update credentials.
Conduct regular security audits to identify and address vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches or updates provided by MEDHOST to address the hard-coded credentials vulnerability.