CVE-2011-1822 in Tivoli Directory Server
Summary
by MITRE
The LDAP_ADD implementation in IBM Tivoli Directory Server (TDS) 5.2 before 5.2.0.5-TIV-ITDS-IF0009 stores a cleartext SHA password in the change log, which might allow local users to obtain sensitive information by reading this log.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/06/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-1822 resides within IBM Tivoli Directory Server version 5.2 prior to 5.2.0.5-TIV-ITDS-IF0009, specifically within its Lightweight Directory Access Protocol LDAP_ADD functionality. This flaw represents a critical information disclosure vulnerability that occurs when the directory server processes add operations for directory entries containing password attributes. The implementation fails to properly secure sensitive authentication data during the change log recording process, creating a persistent exposure that can be exploited by local attackers who gain access to the system's file system or change log files. The vulnerability stems from inadequate cryptographic protection mechanisms during the storage of password information in the change log, which is a fundamental security failure in the server's data handling procedures.
The technical flaw manifests when the LDAP_ADD operation processes directory entries that include password attributes, particularly SHA hashed passwords. During the change log recording process, the system stores these password values in cleartext format rather than maintaining proper cryptographic protection or obfuscation. This creates an inherent weakness where sensitive authentication information becomes accessible through simple file system access or log file examination. The change log mechanism, designed for auditing and replication purposes, becomes a vector for credential exposure when it fails to apply appropriate security controls to sensitive data elements. This behavior violates fundamental security principles regarding the protection of sensitive information at rest and demonstrates a failure in proper data sanitization and protection mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically affects the storage and handling of authentication credentials within the directory server's operational logging infrastructure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as local attackers with read access to the change log files can obtain cleartext password hashes that may be used for unauthorized system access or credential compromise. This exposure creates a significant risk for environments where the directory server operates with multiple local users or where file system access controls are insufficiently restrictive. The vulnerability can be exploited by attackers who already have local system access, potentially enabling them to escalate privileges or gain unauthorized access to other systems that rely on the directory server for authentication. The exposure of SHA password hashes in cleartext format represents a serious degradation of the security posture, as these credentials could be used in offline password cracking attacks or combined with other vulnerabilities to achieve further compromise. The impact is particularly severe in enterprise environments where the directory server serves as a central authentication repository for multiple systems and applications.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to IBM Tivoli Directory Server 5.2.0.5-TIV-ITDS-IF0009 or later versions that contain the necessary patches to address the cleartext password storage issue. System administrators should also review and tighten file system access controls on change log files to limit read access to authorized personnel only, implementing proper discretionary access controls and monitoring for unauthorized access attempts. The implementation of additional logging and monitoring for change log file access can help detect potential exploitation attempts. Security teams should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify any systems running affected versions of Tivoli Directory Server and ensure proper patch management procedures are followed. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit local system access and reduce the attack surface for local privilege escalation attacks. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-312 (Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information) and represents a violation of security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-53 and other security frameworks that emphasize the protection of sensitive data at rest. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1078 (Valid Accounts) and T1565 (Data Manipulation) as it enables unauthorized access through credential exposure and potential data tampering through change log manipulation.