CVE-2017-12479 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability in the session logic of Unitrends Backup (UB) versions prior to 10.0.0 allows remote attackers to elevate privileges from low to root.

Understanding CVE-2017-12479

This CVE discloses a security flaw in Unitrends Backup (UB) that enables the exploitation of the LOGDIR environment variable to escalate user privileges.

What is CVE-2017-12479?

The vulnerability in Unitrends Backup (UB) versions before 10.0.0 permits the elevation of low-privilege user rights to root privileges through the manipulation of the LOGDIR environment variable during a web session.

The Impact of CVE-2017-12479

This vulnerability allows remote attackers with low-privilege credentials to execute unrestricted root-level commands, posing a significant security risk to affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-12479

Unitrends Backup (UB) vulnerability details:

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in the session logic of Unitrends Backup (UB) versions prior to 10.0.0 enables the unauthorized elevation of user privileges using the LOGDIR environment variable during a web session.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Unitrends Backup (UB)
Vendor: Unitrends
Versions affected: Prior to 10.0.0

Exploitation Mechanism

Remote attackers with low-privilege credentials can exploit the vulnerability by manipulating the LOGDIR environment variable during a web session to gain root privileges and execute arbitrary commands.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address CVE-2017-12479:

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade Unitrends Backup (UB) to version 10.0.0 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities that could indicate exploitation of the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user access rights.
Regularly review and update access control policies to prevent unauthorized privilege escalation.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by Unitrends promptly to address known vulnerabilities and enhance system security.