CVE-2008-5099 in Logical Domain Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Sun Logical Domain Manager (aka LDoms Manager or ldm) 1.0 through 1.0.3 displays the value of the OpenBoot PROM (OBP) security-password variable in cleartext, which allows local users to bypass the SPARC firmware s password protection, and gain privileges or obtain data access, via the "ldm ls -l" command, a different vulnerability than CVE-2008-4992.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/03/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5099 affects Sun Logical Domain Manager versions 1.0 through 1.0.3, representing a critical security flaw in the SPARC-based virtualization environment. This issue stems from the improper handling of firmware security credentials within the Logical Domains management interface, specifically exposing sensitive OpenBoot PROM security-password values in cleartext format. The vulnerability manifests when executing the "ldm ls -l" command, which reveals the password variable content in an unencrypted format, thereby undermining the fundamental security posture of SPARC systems that rely on firmware-level password protection mechanisms.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the Logical Domain Manager's command-line interface, where the ldm ls -l command inadvertently exposes the OpenBoot PROM security password variable in plaintext. This cleartext exposure directly violates the principle of least privilege and creates a direct pathway for local attackers to bypass the SPARC firmware's password protection mechanisms. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-200 as "Information Exposure" and specifically relates to the disclosure of sensitive information through improper data handling. Attackers can leverage this exposure to gain unauthorized access to system firmware interfaces, potentially enabling privilege escalation and unauthorized data access within the SPARC environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential disclosure, as it fundamentally compromises the security architecture of SPARC-based systems running Logical Domains. Local users who can execute the ldm ls -l command gain the ability to bypass firmware-level protections that are designed to prevent unauthorized access to system configuration and management interfaces. This exposure creates a significant attack surface that could enable attackers to modify system firmware settings, access restricted system resources, or potentially escalate privileges to gain root access. The vulnerability operates at the system firmware level, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited even when higher-level operating system security measures are functioning correctly.
Security professionals should implement immediate mitigations including restricting local user access to Logical Domain Manager commands, particularly those that expose firmware configuration details. System administrators should disable unnecessary access to the ldm ls -l command and ensure that only authorized personnel with proper clearance can execute these administrative functions. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which describes "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation" and T1566 which covers "Phishing for Information" in the context of credential harvesting. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized execution of ldm commands and establish proper access controls through role-based permissions. Additionally, upgrading to patched versions of Sun Logical Domain Manager or implementing network segmentation to limit access to these management interfaces represents the most effective long-term solutions to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.