CVE-2012-4946 in FleetCommander Kiosk
Summary
by MITRE
Agile FleetCommander and FleetCommander Kiosk before 4.08 use an XOR format for password encryption, which makes it easier for context-dependent attackers to obtain sensitive information by reading a key file and the encrypted strings.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/04/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-4946 affects Agile FleetCommander and FleetCommander Kiosk versions prior to 4.08, presenting a significant security weakness in the password encryption mechanism. This flaw resides in the implementation of encryption algorithms used to protect sensitive authentication data within the system. The vulnerability stems from the use of XOR encryption format, which represents a fundamental cryptographic weakness that undermines the security posture of the affected applications. The XOR cipher, while simple to implement, lacks the complexity and security properties required for protecting sensitive information in modern security environments.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application of a symmetric encryption method where passwords are encrypted using XOR operations against a fixed key. This approach creates a deterministic encryption scheme where identical plaintext values will always produce identical ciphertext values when encrypted with the same key. The weakness becomes apparent when attackers can access both the encrypted password strings and the key file used for encryption. This scenario allows adversaries to reverse-engineer the encryption process and derive the original password values through simple cryptographic analysis. The vulnerability specifically impacts the confidentiality aspect of the system's security model, as it directly compromises the protection of user credentials and authentication data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential exposure, as it creates potential pathways for unauthorized access to privileged system functions. Attackers who successfully exploit this weakness can gain access to administrative accounts and potentially escalate their privileges within the FleetCommander environment. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-310, which addresses cryptographic weaknesses in software implementations, specifically focusing on the use of insecure encryption algorithms. The context-dependent nature of this attack means that successful exploitation requires both the ability to read the key file and access to the encrypted password strings, making it a targeted vulnerability that can be effectively mitigated through proper access controls and system hardening measures.
The security implications of this vulnerability are particularly concerning given that it affects kiosk environments where user access and system integrity are paramount. The XOR encryption method used in these applications does not provide adequate protection against reverse engineering attempts, especially when the key material is stored in accessible locations within the system. This vulnerability can be categorized under the ATT&CK framework as a credential access technique, specifically targeting the use of stolen credentials for unauthorized system access. Organizations using affected versions of FleetCommander should immediately implement mitigation measures including updating to version 4.08 or later, implementing proper key file access controls, and conducting thorough security assessments to identify any potential exploitation attempts that may have occurred.
The root cause of this vulnerability demonstrates a lack of proper cryptographic implementation practices within the software development lifecycle. Modern security standards require the use of robust encryption algorithms such as AES or RSA for protecting sensitive data, rather than simple XOR operations that provide minimal security guarantees. The vulnerability represents a failure to adhere to established cryptographic best practices and highlights the importance of proper security testing and code review processes. Organizations should consider implementing additional security controls such as encrypted credential storage, secure key management practices, and regular vulnerability assessments to prevent similar issues from occurring in other system components. The remediation process should include not only updating to the patched version but also implementing comprehensive security monitoring to detect any unauthorized access attempts that may have been possible through this vulnerability.