CVE-2012-6655 in AccountService
Summary
by MITRE
An issue exists AccountService 0.6.37 in the user_change_password_authorized_cb() function in user.c which could let a local users obtain encrypted passwords.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/28/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-6655 resides within the AccountService component version 0.6.37 and specifically affects the user_change_password_authorized_cb() function in the user.c source file. This represents a significant security flaw that could potentially allow local users to obtain encrypted passwords through improper access controls and privilege escalation mechanisms. The issue stems from inadequate validation of user authorization status during password change operations, creating a pathway for unauthorized access to password hashes stored within the system.
The technical implementation flaw occurs when the user_change_password_authorized_cb() function fails to properly verify whether a user possesses sufficient privileges to modify another user's password. This function appears to lack proper authentication checks that would normally validate the requesting user's authorization level before proceeding with password modification operations. The vulnerability manifests when a local attacker can manipulate the function's behavior to extract or access encrypted password information that should remain protected. This type of flaw typically falls under CWE-284 which addresses improper access control, specifically weak access control mechanisms that allow unauthorized users to access protected resources.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates a substantial risk for systems utilizing AccountService 0.6.37, particularly in environments where multiple users share the same system or where privilege escalation attacks are possible. Local users who can exploit this vulnerability gain access to encrypted password hashes, which could then be subjected to offline cracking attacks or used as part of broader exploitation campaigns. The impact extends beyond simple password exposure since these encrypted credentials could serve as stepping stones for further attacks, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Attackers might leverage this access to escalate privileges, move laterally within networks, or establish persistent access through credential reuse attacks.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with several tactics described in the ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to privilege escalation and credential access. This flaw represents a classic example of how insufficient access controls can create opportunities for attackers to obtain sensitive information that should remain protected. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of implementing proper input validation and authentication checks within all system components, especially those handling user account management functions. Organizations should consider implementing additional security controls such as mandatory access controls, privilege separation mechanisms, and regular code reviews to prevent similar issues from occurring in other system components.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-6655 should include immediate patching of the AccountService component to version 0.6.38 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the authorization checks in the user_change_password_authorized_cb() function. System administrators should also implement monitoring for unauthorized password change attempts and ensure that proper logging mechanisms are in place to detect potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of similar functions within their systems to identify and remediate comparable access control vulnerabilities. The fix should incorporate proper authorization validation that ensures only users with appropriate privileges can perform password change operations for other accounts, thereby preventing the unauthorized extraction of encrypted password information.