CVE-2017-3980 : What You Need to Know

A security flaw related to directory traversal has been discovered in the ePO Extension in McAfee ePolicy Orchestrator (ePO) versions 5.9.0, 5.3.2, and 5.1.3, allowing remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary commands.

Understanding CVE-2017-3980

This CVE involves a directory traversal vulnerability in McAfee ePolicy Orchestrator (ePO) that enables remote authenticated users to execute unauthorized commands.

What is CVE-2017-3980?

CVE-2017-3980 is a security vulnerability found in the ePO Extension of McAfee ePolicy Orchestrator (ePO) versions 5.9.0, 5.3.2, and 5.1.3, and earlier versions. It allows authenticated remote users to run any desired command through an authenticated ePO session.

The Impact of CVE-2017-3980

The vulnerability poses a significant risk as it grants remote authenticated users unauthorized access to execute commands within the ePO system, potentially leading to data breaches, system compromise, and unauthorized activities.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-3980

The technical aspects of the vulnerability are crucial to understanding its implications and the necessary actions to mitigate the risk.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in the ePO Extension of McAfee ePolicy Orchestrator (ePO) versions 5.9.0, 5.3.2, and 5.1.3, and earlier versions, allows remote authenticated users to exploit a directory traversal vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: ePolicy Orchestrator (ePO)
Vendor: McAfee
Affected Versions: 5.9.0 and earlier, 5.3.2 and earlier, 5.1.3 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by remote authenticated users leveraging an authenticated ePO session to execute any command they desire within the system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Taking immediate steps and implementing long-term security practices are essential to address and prevent CVE-2017-3980.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update McAfee ePolicy Orchestrator (ePO) to the latest patched version.
Monitor and restrict user permissions within the ePO system.
Conduct security audits to detect any unauthorized activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and systems to prevent vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential breaches.
Educate users on secure practices and the importance of strong authentication.

Patching and Updates

McAfee has released patches to address the vulnerability in affected versions of ePolicy Orchestrator (ePO).
Ensure timely application of patches and updates to safeguard against known security risks.