CVE-2017-4976 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-4976, a vulnerability in EMC ESRS Policy Manager prior to 6.8 that allows unauthorized access to the system through a hidden account with a default password. Find mitigation steps and preventive measures here.
EMC ESRS Policy Manager prior to 6.8 contains an undocumented account vulnerability that could allow an attacker to gain administrative privileges.
Understanding CVE-2017-4976
This CVE involves a hidden account with a default password in EMC ESRS Policy Manager versions prior to 6.8, potentially leading to unauthorized access and privilege escalation.
What is CVE-2017-4976?
The vulnerability in EMC ESRS Policy Manager allows a remote attacker with knowledge of the default password to gain administrative privileges on the local LDAP directory server.
The Impact of CVE-2017-4976
The presence of this undocumented account vulnerability poses a significant security risk as it could be exploited by malicious actors to compromise the system and access sensitive information.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-4976
EMC ESRS Policy Manager prior to version 6.8 is affected by an undocumented account vulnerability with the following details:
Vulnerability Description
- The version of EMC ESRS Policy Manager older than 6.8 includes a hidden account (OpenDS admin) with a default password.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: EMC ESRS Policy Manager prior to 6.8
- Vendor: n/a
- Versions: EMC ESRS Policy Manager prior to 6.8
Exploitation Mechanism
- An outsider with knowledge of the default password can gain remote access to the system and obtain administrative privileges to the local LDAP directory server.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2017-4976, consider the following steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Change the default password for the OpenDS admin account immediately.
- Implement strong password policies and regular password changes.
- Monitor system logs for any unauthorized access attempts.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments.
- Keep software and systems up to date with the latest patches and security updates.
Patching and Updates
- Apply the necessary patches provided by the vendor to fix the vulnerability in EMC ESRS Policy Manager.