CVE-2009-3746 in Solaris
Summary
by MITRE
XScreenSaver in Sun Solaris 10, when the accessibility feature is enabled, allows physically proximate attackers to obtain sensitive information by reading popup windows, which are displayed even when the screen is locked, a different vulnerability than CVE-2009-1276 and CVE-2009-2711.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/15/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-3746 represents a critical security flaw in the XScreenSaver implementation within Sun Solaris 10 operating systems. This issue specifically manifests when accessibility features are enabled, creating an unexpected information disclosure channel that undermines the fundamental security principle of screen locking mechanisms. The vulnerability exploits a design oversight where popup windows containing sensitive information remain visible even when the system screen is locked, effectively bypassing the intended security boundary that should protect user data during inactive periods.
The technical flaw stems from the improper handling of accessibility features within the XScreenSaver framework, where the system fails to properly secure popup notifications and alerts that are displayed during screen lock states. When accessibility options are enabled, the system continues to render certain user interface elements that contain sensitive data, creating a window of opportunity for attackers who are physically present and proximate to the target system. This vulnerability operates at the graphical user interface level, specifically within the X Window System implementation, where screen locking mechanisms do not adequately account for accessibility-related UI elements that may persist in visible states.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with direct access to potentially sensitive data that would normally be protected by the screen lock mechanism. Physically proximate attackers can exploit this weakness to read popup windows containing system information, user credentials, or other confidential data without requiring any network access or advanced exploitation techniques. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where Solaris 10 systems may be located in shared workspaces or public areas where unauthorized physical access is possible, creating a significant risk for organizations handling sensitive information.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability differs from related issues such as CVE-2009-1276 and CVE-2009-2711, which address different aspects of screen locking and accessibility features. The flaw aligns with CWE-200, which describes improper information disclosure vulnerabilities, and represents a specific case of CWE-312, concerning the exposure of sensitive information through improper access controls. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1087.001, which involves account access removal through physical access, and T1552.001, focusing on unsecured credentials through local access methods. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including disabling unnecessary accessibility features when screen locking is required, applying vendor patches for Solaris 10, and establishing proper security policies that address physical security controls for systems running vulnerable configurations.