CVE-2013-6181 in Watch4Net
Summary
by MITRE
EMC Watch4Net before 6.3 stores cleartext polled-device passwords in the installation repository, which allows local users to obtain sensitive information by leveraging repository privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-6181 affects EMC Watch4Net versions prior to 6.3, representing a critical security flaw in how the system handles authentication credentials. This issue stems from the improper storage of cleartext passwords within the installation repository, creating a significant exposure point for unauthorized access. The vulnerability specifically impacts local users who possess repository privileges, enabling them to exploit this weakness and extract sensitive authentication information from the system.
The technical flaw resides in the application's credential management practices where passwords are stored in an unencrypted format rather than being properly hashed or encrypted. This cleartext storage method violates fundamental security principles and creates a direct pathway for privilege escalation attacks. The installation repository serves as a central storage location for system configuration data including device credentials, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking to gain deeper access to network infrastructure. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-312 (Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information) which specifically addresses the insecure handling of sensitive data in storage systems.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability enables local users with repository privileges to directly access and extract passwords for monitored network devices without requiring additional attack vectors or exploitation techniques. The impact extends beyond simple credential theft as these passwords often provide access to critical network infrastructure components including routers, switches, and other network devices that may have elevated privileges within the network environment. Attackers could leverage these credentials to conduct further reconnaissance, establish persistent access, or execute lateral movement attacks within the network. This vulnerability essentially provides a backdoor entry point that bypasses normal authentication mechanisms and could lead to complete network compromise.
The security implications of this vulnerability align with ATT&CK technique T1552.001 (Credentials in Files) and T1078 (Valid Accounts) as it represents both credential exposure through file-based storage and potential account compromise through legitimate access. Organizations using affected versions of EMC Watch4Net face significant risk of unauthorized access to their network monitoring infrastructure, potentially exposing sensitive network data and compromising security controls. The vulnerability demonstrates poor security hygiene in credential handling practices and highlights the importance of implementing proper encryption and access control measures for sensitive system data. Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to EMC Watch4Net 6.3 or later versions, implementing strict access controls for repository privileges, and conducting thorough security audits of credential storage practices across their infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate deployment of the vendor-provided patch or upgrade to the affected software version, implementation of least privilege access controls for repository access, and regular security assessments of credential storage mechanisms. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing automated monitoring for unauthorized access attempts to sensitive system repositories and establish procedures for regular credential rotation and access reviews. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure credential management practices and the potential consequences of failing to implement proper encryption and access controls for sensitive authentication data.