CVE-2011-3014 in Data Synchronizer
Summary
by MITRE
The Mobility Pack before 1.2 in Novell Data Synchronizer 1.x through 1.1.2 build 428 does not properly restrict caching of HTTPS responses, which makes it easier for remote attackers to obtain sensitive information by leveraging an unattended workstation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/24/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2011-3014 affects Novell Data Synchronizer Mobility Pack versions prior to 1.2, specifically impacting versions 1.x through 1.1.2 build 428. This issue represents a critical security flaw in how the system handles HTTPS response caching mechanisms, creating an exploitable condition that can lead to information disclosure. The vulnerability stems from improper implementation of caching controls that should normally prevent sensitive data from being stored in accessible cache locations. When users leave their workstations unattended, the system's inadequate cache management allows unauthorized access to previously processed HTTPS communications, potentially exposing confidential information that was transmitted over secure connections. This weakness directly violates fundamental security principles regarding data protection and access control in enterprise environments.
The technical flaw manifests through the Mobility Pack's failure to properly implement cache restrictions for HTTPS responses, creating a scenario where sensitive information can persist in memory or disk caches long after its initial transmission. This vulnerability operates at the application layer and specifically targets the caching behavior of secure HTTP communications. The implementation flaw allows cache entries to remain accessible even when users step away from their systems, creating a window of opportunity for attackers to exploit the cached data. According to CWE classification, this represents a weakness in cache management (CWE-200) where sensitive information is improperly exposed due to inadequate access controls on cached resources. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it leverages the trust model inherent in HTTPS connections, where users expect their communications to remain private even when systems are left unattended.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-3014 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it creates persistent security risks that can be exploited by attackers with physical access to unattended systems. This vulnerability enables what is known as a "cache side-channel attack" where unauthorized parties can access cached HTTPS responses containing sensitive data such as user credentials, personal information, or business data. The risk is amplified in enterprise environments where multiple users share workstations or where systems are left unattended during typical work hours. Attackers can exploit this weakness through various methods including direct cache inspection, memory analysis, or by leveraging other attack vectors that gain access to the system's cache storage areas. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1557.001 for "Adversary-in-the-Middle" attacks where cached data becomes accessible to unauthorized parties, and represents a significant concern for organizations following security frameworks like NIST SP 800-53 controls related to information protection and access control.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-3014 require immediate implementation of proper cache control mechanisms within the Mobility Pack software. Organizations should upgrade to Novell Data Synchronizer Mobility Pack version 1.2 or later, which includes corrected cache management functionality that properly restricts HTTPS response caching. System administrators should implement additional controls such as configuring automatic cache clearing on workstation lock events, implementing stricter cache expiration policies, and ensuring that sensitive data is not cached in memory or disk locations accessible to unauthorized users. Network security teams should monitor for potential exploitation attempts through network traffic analysis and implement host-based intrusion detection systems to identify unauthorized cache access attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following security best practices outlined in industry standards such as ISO 27001 and NIST guidelines for secure configuration management, particularly regarding cache and memory management in enterprise applications. Organizations should conduct regular security assessments to identify similar cache-related vulnerabilities in other enterprise applications and ensure that proper access controls are implemented for all cached content.