CVE-2012-2223 in ZENworks Configuration Management
Summary
by MITRE
The xplat agent in Novell ZENworks Configuration Management (ZCM) 10.3.x before 10.3.4 and 11.x before 11.2 enables the HTTP TRACE method, which might make it easier for remote attackers to conduct cross-site tracing (XST) attacks via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/21/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-2223 affects the xplat agent component within Novell ZENworks Configuration Management versions 10.3.x prior to 10.3.4 and 11.x prior to 11.2. This security flaw resides in the HTTP protocol implementation of the agent, specifically through the enabling of the TRACE method which creates significant exposure to cross-site tracing attacks. The issue stems from the agent's default configuration that allows HTTP TRACE functionality, a method that can be exploited to bypass security controls and gain unauthorized access to sensitive information.
The technical flaw manifests through the HTTP TRACE method being enabled on the xplat agent server component. When TRACE is enabled, it allows remote attackers to submit HTTP TRACE requests that can reveal information about the server's internal state and potentially expose sensitive data through cross-site tracing techniques. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the HTTP protocol level, where attackers can leverage the TRACE method to capture and manipulate HTTP headers, potentially extracting authentication tokens or other confidential information. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-1238 which specifically addresses the improper handling of HTTP TRACE methods in web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with a vector for more sophisticated attacks. Through cross-site tracing, malicious actors can exploit the TRACE method to perform session hijacking, extract authentication credentials, and potentially escalate privileges within the ZENworks environment. The vulnerability affects the entire ZENworks Configuration Management ecosystem, particularly impacting systems where the xplat agent is deployed, potentially compromising the integrity and confidentiality of managed devices and their configurations.
Organizations utilizing Novell ZENworks Configuration Management should immediately implement mitigations including disabling the HTTP TRACE method on affected systems, updating to patched versions 10.3.4 and 11.2 respectively, and implementing proper network segmentation to limit exposure. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1190 - Proxy Protocol Tunneling and T1566 - Phishing, as attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access through manipulated HTTP traffic. Security administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block TRACE method requests, and conduct regular security assessments to ensure that HTTP TRACE functionality is disabled across all server components. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper HTTP method configuration and the need for regular security updates to maintain the integrity of enterprise management systems.