External risk intelligence

DNN Platform Weak Encryption Risk

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2018-15811

The DNN platform versions 9.2 through 9.2.1 use weak encryption for input parameters, potentially exposing sensitive data to unauthorized access. This presents a business risk to data confidentiality and operational stability.

4Halo Surface Signal

Dnnsoftware Dotnetnuke

9.2 to 9.2.1

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2018-15811

DotNetNuke (DNN) is a widely used content management system (CMS) framework designed to power public-facing websites and web applications. As a web-based platform, it is commonly deployed as an internet-accessible service to manage web content, making it highly likely to be reachable from the public internet in typical deployments.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

The DNN platform, specifically versions 9.2 through 9.2.1, utilizes an insufficient encryption method for its input parameters. This weakness can be exploited by attackers to potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or execute malicious actions. The primary business risk stems from the potential compromise of data integrity and confidentiality, impacting the organization's operational stability and reputation.

  • DNN platform versions 9.2-9.2.1
  • Weak encryption for input parameters
  • Potential data compromise and unauthorized access

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

A network-accessible vulnerability exists in DNN versions 9.2 through 9.2.1 due to the use of a weak encryption algorithm for input parameters. An attacker could exploit this to gain unauthorized access to systems. This could impact the confidentiality of data.

  • Network exposure required
  • Attacker accesses system
  • Triggering parameter leads to control

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability in DotNetNuke allows for the protection of input parameters using a weak encryption algorithm. The impact of this weakness could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information or systems. Organizations using the affected versions of DotNetNuke should consider the potential business risks associated with this vulnerability.

  • Likely attacker skill level: Low.
  • Required access or conditions: Publicly accessible.
  • Business risk or urgency: High.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

The organization's systems utilizing DNN versions 9.2 through 9.2.1 are impacted by a vulnerability that uses weak encryption for input parameters. This could expose sensitive data to unauthorized access. The vendor has released updates to address this issue.

  • Identify all DNN assets.
  • Reduce exposure to affected systems.
  • Apply vendor fixes and validate.
  • Monitor for related incidents.

Frequently asked questions

What is the DNN platform and what is it used for?

The DNN platform, also known as DotNetNuke, is a content management system framework used for building and managing public-facing websites and web applications. It allows users to create and update web content without needing extensive technical knowledge.

What type of vulnerability does CVE-2018-15811 represent?

CVE-2018-15811 is an inadequate encryption strength vulnerability (CWE-326). This means that DNN versions 9.2 through 9.2.1 use a weak method to encrypt input parameters, making them easier for attackers to decipher and potentially misuse.

How can an attacker exploit this vulnerability in DNN?

An attacker can exploit this by sending specially crafted input parameters to the DNN platform. The weakness in encryption means these parameters might be intercepted or manipulated, potentially leading to unauthorized access or actions, though it does not trigger if the system is not internet-facing.

Who should be concerned about this DNN vulnerability?

Organizations that use DNN versions 9.2 through 9.2.1 for their websites or web applications should be concerned. The Halo Surface Signal indicates this vulnerability is likely internet-facing, meaning it could be accessible from the public internet and potentially exploited by external attackers.

What are the first steps for responding to this DNN threat?

The first steps involve identifying all DNN assets within your organization, assessing their exposure, and applying any available updates or patches released by the vendor to fix the weak encryption. Monitoring for unusual activity on these systems is also recommended.

References