CVE-2002-0712 in Authority Security Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Entrust Authority Security Manager (EASM) 6.0 does not properly require multiple master users to change the password of a master user, which could allow a master user to perform operations that require multiple authorizations.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/17/2024
The vulnerability identified in CVE-2002-0712 affects Entrust Authority Security Manager version 6.0, a critical component in enterprise security infrastructure that manages cryptographic keys and digital certificates. This flaw represents a significant weakness in the system's access control mechanisms, specifically within the master user authentication framework. The vulnerability stems from insufficient enforcement of multi-factor authorization requirements when performing sensitive administrative operations, creating a pathway for potential security breaches that could compromise the entire security infrastructure.
The technical implementation flaw resides in the password change functionality of the master user accounts within EASM 6.0. Normally, systems implementing robust security controls require multiple authorized individuals to authenticate and approve critical operations such as password modifications for master accounts. However, the vulnerability allows a single master user to bypass this multi-authorization requirement and change another master user's password without proper verification from additional authorized parties. This design flaw directly violates fundamental security principles of separation of duties and least privilege access, creating a scenario where a compromised or malicious master user could gain unauthorized control over other administrative accounts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple password changes, as it fundamentally undermines the security model of the entire Entrust Authority Security Manager deployment. An attacker who compromises a single master user account could leverage this weakness to escalate privileges and gain access to additional administrative accounts, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations that rely heavily on centralized certificate management and cryptographic key administration, where the security of these systems directly impacts the integrity of all digital communications and transactions. The risk is exacerbated by the fact that master user accounts typically possess extensive privileges across the security infrastructure, making them prime targets for exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate implementation of proper multi-factor authorization controls for all master user operations, including password changes and account modifications. Organizations should implement mandatory approval workflows that require authentication from multiple authorized parties before allowing critical administrative operations to proceed. This approach aligns with security best practices outlined in the Center for Internet Security (CIS) Controls and addresses the core weakness identified in CWE-305, which specifically addresses authentication mechanisms that do not require multiple factors or approvals for sensitive operations. Additionally, system administrators should conduct comprehensive audits of all master user accounts and implement continuous monitoring for unauthorized access attempts or suspicious activities related to account modifications. The remediation process should also include updating to patched versions of Entrust Authority Security Manager where available, as this vulnerability represents a known weakness that has likely been addressed in subsequent releases.