CVE-2005-3398 in Solaris
Summary
by MITRE
The default configuration of the web server for the Solaris Management Console (SMC) in Solaris 8, 9, and 10 enables the HTTP TRACE method, which could allow remote attackers to obtain sensitive information such as cookies and authentication data from HTTP headers.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/05/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3398 represents a critical security flaw in the Solaris Management Console web server implementation across Solaris 8, 9, and 10 operating systems. This issue stems from the default configuration of the web server component that permits the HTTP TRACE method to remain enabled, creating a significant attack surface that adversaries can exploit to compromise system security. The Solaris Management Console serves as a centralized management interface for Solaris systems, making this vulnerability particularly concerning as it affects the core administrative capabilities of the operating system.
The technical flaw manifests through the improper handling of HTTP TRACE requests within the web server configuration. When the TRACE method is enabled, it allows remote attackers to send diagnostic requests that can reveal information stored in HTTP headers. This capability enables attackers to extract sensitive authentication tokens, session cookies, and other confidential data that may be present in HTTP headers. The vulnerability operates under the principle that the web server's response to TRACE requests inadvertently exposes internal information that should remain protected, creating a pathway for information disclosure attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the means to harvest authentication credentials and session data that could be used to escalate privileges or gain unauthorized access to the Solaris Management Console. This weakness directly violates security principles of least privilege and data protection, as it allows unauthorized parties to obtain sensitive information that should remain confidential within the system's security boundaries. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it requires minimal privileges to execute and can be performed remotely without requiring authentication to the target system.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-1004 which addresses insecure default configurations, and represents a classic example of how default security settings can create exploitable conditions within network services. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving credential access and information discovery, as attackers can leverage the TRACE method to gather authentication information and system details. The attack surface is particularly concerning for enterprise environments where Solaris Management Console is deployed, as it provides a direct path to compromise administrative access to multiple systems.
Organizations should immediately disable the HTTP TRACE method in their Solaris Management Console configurations to mitigate this vulnerability. The recommended mitigation involves modifying the web server configuration to explicitly disable TRACE requests through appropriate server directives. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls around the Solaris Management Console can help reduce the attack surface. Regular security audits and configuration reviews should be conducted to ensure that default settings are not inadvertently re-enabled. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining secure configurations and demonstrates how seemingly benign HTTP methods can create significant security risks when improperly configured in enterprise environments.