CVE-2021-25296 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting Nagios XI version 5.7.5, which allows for OS command injection. This vulnerability exists due to improper sanitization of authenticated user-controlled input through a single HTTP request in the file /usr/local/nagiosxi/html/includes/configwizards/windowswmi/windowswmi.inc.php. Attackers can exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary commands on the Nagios XI server, potentially compromising the system.
With a CVSS score of 8.8, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations. The attack vector is classified as network-based, with a low attack complexity and low privileges required for exploitation. The implications are severe, as successful exploitation can lead to high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
Organizations using Nagios XI should prioritize immediate remediation to prevent potential exploitation. Given the nature of the vulnerability and its critical impact, failure to address it could result in unauthorized access to sensitive data and system functionalities.
The exploitation status indicates that this vulnerability is included in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, which further emphasizes the urgency for organizations to apply the necessary patches.
Organizations should act swiftly to apply any available updates as per vendor instructions to mitigate risks associated with CVE-2021-25296.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability allows for OS command injection, which can be exploited through a single HTTP request. The affected product is Nagios XI version 5.7.5, and the vulnerability was published on February 15, 2021. The Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) classification associated with this vulnerability is CWE-78, indicating improper input validation.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability stems from the failure to adequately sanitize user input, allowing attackers to inject malicious OS commands. The attack vector is network-based, requiring low privileges, and does not necessitate user interaction. Given the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, the vulnerability presents a critical threat to the security of systems utilizing Nagios XI.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to sensitive data and potential system takeovers. The blast radius of this vulnerability can be extensive, affecting not only the application but potentially the entire network if exploited. Given the CVSS score of 8.8 and its inclusion in the KEV catalog, organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | Yes |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions of Nagios XI from 5.5.6 through 5.7.5 are affected. Organizations must ensure they upgrade to a patched version to mitigate this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should apply updates per vendor instructions immediately. If patches are not available, consider implementing network controls to restrict access to the Nagios XI server. Regularly monitor system logs for any unusual activity that may indicate attempts to exploit this vulnerability. For further assistance, organizations can consult resources on penetration testing guidelines.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for indicators of exploitation, including unusual HTTP requests and command execution patterns. Behavioral anomalies in system performance may also indicate attempts to exploit this vulnerability. Implementing intrusion detection systems can help identify such activities.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2021-25296 illustrates the importance of input validation in application security. The trends observed in command injection vulnerabilities highlight the need for robust security measures. Security teams should prioritize regular security assessments and engage in vulnerability management to identify and remediate such weaknesses proactively. Furthermore, adopting a penetration testing approach can uncover vulnerabilities before they are exploited.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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