CVE-2012-6596 in PAN-OS
Summary
by MITRE
Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS 4.0.x before 4.0.9 and 4.1.x before 4.1.3 stores cleartext LDAP bind passwords in authd.log, which allows context-dependent attackers to obtain sensitive information by reading this file, aka Ref ID 35493.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/07/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-6596 represents a critical security flaw in Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS versions 4.0.x prior to 4.0.9 and 4.1.x prior to 4.1.3. This issue stems from the improper handling of authentication credentials within the system's logging mechanisms, specifically affecting the authd.log file that is used for authentication-related activities. The flaw exposes sensitive information through insecure logging practices that persistently store authentication credentials in an easily accessible format, creating a significant risk for organizations relying on these network security appliances.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the logging subsystem within the PAN-OS authentication daemon where LDAP bind passwords are written to the authd.log file in cleartext format. This occurs during the authentication process when the system attempts to bind to an LDAP directory service, and the credentials used for this binding operation are not properly sanitized or encrypted before being recorded in the log file. The log file typically contains detailed authentication traces including username and password information, making it a prime target for attackers who gain access to the system. This practice violates fundamental security principles for credential handling and logging, as sensitive authentication data should never be stored in plaintext within system logs.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential exposure, as it creates a persistent attack surface that can be exploited by context-dependent adversaries. Attackers with access to the system's file system or those who can perform privilege escalation attacks can directly read the authd.log file to extract LDAP bind passwords. These credentials can then be used to authenticate to the LDAP directory service, potentially providing unauthorized access to additional systems and resources within the organization's network infrastructure. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects the core authentication mechanisms of the firewall, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges and move laterally within the network environment. This aligns with attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under credential access and privilege escalation techniques.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigations including updating to the patched versions of PAN-OS 4.0.9 or 4.1.3, which address the insecure logging behavior by either encrypting the stored credentials or preventing their inclusion in log files altogether. Additional protective measures include restricting file system access to the authd.log file through proper file permissions and access controls, implementing regular log file monitoring for unauthorized access attempts, and establishing comprehensive audit procedures to detect potential credential exposure. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following security best practices for log management and credential handling as outlined in various industry standards including the CWE catalog which identifies this as a weakness related to improper logging of sensitive information. Organizations should also consider implementing centralized log management solutions with proper access controls and encryption mechanisms to prevent similar issues in other system components.