External risk intelligence

DNN Remote Code Execution Via Cookie

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2017-9822

A remote code execution vulnerability exists in DNN websites, potentially allowing attackers to compromise systems. This can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and service disruptions. The realistic business risk includes reputational damage, financial loss, and operational downtime.

4Halo Surface Signal

Code Injection

Dnnsoftware Dotnetnuke

before 9.1.1

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2017-9822

DNN (DotNetNuke) is a web content management system commonly deployed as a public-facing web application. Since it is designed to host websites and portals accessible to the internet, the vulnerable component is likely to be reachable by external users in typical real-world deployments.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

DNN, a web content management system, has a vulnerability that could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This flaw stems from how the system processes cookies, potentially enabling unauthorized code execution. The primary business risk involves the compromise of systems, leading to data breaches or disruptions.

  • Vulnerable: DNN websites
  • Flaw: Cookie deserialization allows code execution
  • Impact: System compromise and data breaches

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

This vulnerability allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code on a DNN (DotNetNuke) system. The attack involves sending a specially crafted cookie to a vulnerable DNN website. This can lead to unauthorized access and control over the affected system.

  • Unauthenticated access to DNN.
  • Attacker sends malicious cookie.
  • Remote code execution occurs.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability presents a significant risk due to its potential for remote code execution, allowing attackers to take control of affected systems. Exploitation can lead to severe business disruption and data compromise. The known exploitation in ransomware campaigns underscores the urgency of addressing this issue.

  • Attackers with low skill.
  • Publicly accessible systems.
  • High business risk and urgency.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability may allow for remote code execution within the organization's DNN (DotNetNuke) websites. Attackers can exploit this by sending specially crafted cookie data. Affected systems could be compromised, leading to unauthorized access, data breaches, and disruption of services. The business risk includes reputational damage, financial loss, and potential operational downtime.

  • Find affected DNN assets.
  • Reduce exposure or isolate risk.
  • Apply vendor fixes and validate.
  • Monitor for related issues.

Frequently asked questions

What is DNN (DotNetNuke) and what is it used for?

DNN, also known as DotNetNuke, is a web content management system. It is used to build and manage websites and online portals, allowing users to create and maintain dynamic web content.

What is the weakness class for CVE-2017-9822 in DNN?

The vulnerability CVE-2017-9822 in DNN is related to improper handling of cookies, specifically through a process called deserialization. This falls under the weakness class CWE-94, which involves the control of dynamic code generation or execution.

How can an attacker exploit CVE-2017-9822 in DNN?

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted cookie to a vulnerable DNN website. This exploit does not require authentication, but it does require the attacker to be able to send data to the target system.

How significant is the risk posed by CVE-2017-9822 to my organization?

This vulnerability is considered a high risk because it can allow for remote code execution, meaning an attacker could gain control of the affected DNN system. Given that DNN is often used for internet-facing websites, this exposure is likely to be reachable by external users.

What should I do if my organization uses DNN?

If your organization uses DNN, you should identify all affected DNN assets. The primary response is to apply the security updates provided by the vendor to versions prior to 9.1.1. After applying updates, validate that the fix has been successfully implemented.

References