CVE-2012-0425 in YaST
Summary
by MITRE
LanItems.ycp in save_y2logs in yast2-network before 2.24.4 in SUSE YaST writes cleartext Wi-Fi credentials to the y2log log file, which allows context-dependent attackers to obtain sensitive information by reading the (1) WIRELESS_WPA_PASSWORD or (2) WIRELESS_CLIENT_KEY_PASSWORD field.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/29/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2012-0425 represents a critical security flaw in the SUSE YaST configuration tool's network management component. This issue specifically affects the LanItems.ycp script within the yast2-network package, which is responsible for handling wireless network configurations. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of sensitive authentication data during the logging process, creating a persistent security risk that can be exploited by attackers with access to system logs.
The technical flaw manifests in the save_y2logs function where cleartext Wi-Fi credentials are written to log files without proper sanitization or encryption. This behavior violates fundamental security principles by storing sensitive information in plain text format, making it immediately accessible to any entity with read permissions on the affected log files. The vulnerability specifically targets two critical fields: WIRELESS_WPA_PASSWORD and WIRELESS_CLIENT_KEY_PASSWORD, which contain the actual authentication credentials required to access wireless networks. This represents a direct violation of the principle of least privilege and proper credential handling as outlined in security best practices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with immediate access to wireless network authentication credentials that can be used for unauthorized network access, man-in-the-middle attacks, or lateral movement within network environments. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability through simple file reading operations, making the attack vector extremely accessible and low-risk for exploitation. The vulnerability affects systems running SUSE YaST versions prior to 2.24.4, creating a significant risk for organizations that have not updated their systems. This issue aligns with CWE-312 (Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information) and represents a classic example of insecure data handling practices in system administration tools.
From an attack perspective, this vulnerability maps directly to the ATT&CK technique T1552.001 (Unsecured Credentials) and T1078 (Valid Accounts) as it provides attackers with legitimate credentials that can be used for persistent access. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical skill and can be automated, making it particularly dangerous in environments where system logs are not properly secured or monitored. Organizations using affected versions of SUSE YaST should immediately implement mitigation measures including log file access controls, credential sanitization procedures, and system updates to prevent exploitation. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure logging practices and proper credential management in system administration tools, as highlighted by security frameworks such as NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001 requirements for information security controls.