CVE-2011-4730 in Plesk Panel
Summary
by MITRE
The Server Administration Panel in Parallels Plesk Panel 10.2.0_build1011110331.18 generates a password form field without disabling the autocomplete feature, which makes it easier for remote attackers to bypass authentication by leveraging an unattended workstation, as demonstrated by forms in admin/reseller/login-info/ and certain other files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-4730 resides within the Server Administration Panel of Parallels Plesk Panel version 10.2.0_build1011110331.18, representing a critical security oversight that directly impacts authentication mechanisms. This flaw manifests in the improper configuration of HTML form elements, specifically the password input fields that lack the autocomplete="off" attribute. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to implement proper security measures when rendering administrative login interfaces, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote attackers to compromise system access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the generation of HTML forms without explicit disabling of browser autocomplete functionality for password fields. When a user navigates to administrative sections such as admin/reseller/login-info/ or similar interfaces, the application renders password input fields that retain the default browser behavior of suggesting previously stored credentials. This design flaw allows attackers to exploit unattended workstations where administrators may have saved their login credentials in the browser's password manager. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-627, which addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in a command or query, and more specifically to CWE-384, concerning the use of predictable session identifiers or authentication mechanisms that can be bypassed through automated means.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it enables attackers to perform unauthorized administrative actions on compromised systems. When an attacker gains access to an unattended workstation where an administrator has previously logged in, they can simply select from the browser's autocomplete suggestions to obtain valid administrative credentials without needing to perform additional reconnaissance or exploitation. This scenario represents a significant risk in environments where administrative access is required for system maintenance and configuration, as it essentially removes the barrier of requiring a password when the system is left unattended. The attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1562.001, which involves the exploitation of credential access mechanisms through the use of legitimate credentials from compromised accounts.
The security implications of this vulnerability are particularly severe in multi-user environments or shared workstations where administrators may not always be present to monitor their sessions. Attackers can leverage this weakness to perform unauthorized operations including but not limited to modifying user accounts, changing system configurations, accessing sensitive data, or installing malicious software. The vulnerability creates a persistent risk that remains active as long as the affected application is in use, making it a particularly concerning issue for system administrators who must maintain continuous access to their administrative interfaces. Organizations implementing Plesk Panel in production environments face significant exposure to this type of attack, especially in scenarios involving remote administration or shared physical workspaces. The recommended mitigation strategy involves implementing proper HTML form attributes to disable autocomplete functionality for password fields, while also establishing robust session management policies and ensuring that administrative interfaces are secured through additional authentication layers such as two-factor authentication.