CVE-2014-0872 in Security Key Lifecycle Manager
Summary
by MITRE
The installation process in IBM Security Key Lifecycle Manager 2.5 stores unencrypted credentials, which might allow local users to obtain sensitive information by leveraging root access. IBM X-Force ID: 90988.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/07/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0872 resides within the installation process of IBM Security Key Lifecycle Manager version 2.5, representing a critical weakness in credential handling practices that directly impacts system security posture. This flaw manifests during the software installation phase when authentication credentials are stored in an unencrypted format on the local system, creating a persistent security risk that extends beyond the installation process itself. The vulnerability specifically targets the credential storage mechanism during setup, which is a fundamental component of any security solution where proper credential management is paramount to maintaining system integrity.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of sensitive authentication data during software deployment, where the installation utility fails to encrypt or properly secure credentials before storing them on the target system. This unencrypted storage creates a direct attack vector for local users who can leverage existing root access to extract these credentials from the filesystem, effectively bypassing any network-based security controls that might otherwise protect the system. The flaw demonstrates poor security design principles and violates fundamental security practices outlined in industry standards such as the CWE-312 weakness category, which specifically addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper data handling. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it occurs during the installation process, meaning that any user with sufficient privileges to execute the installer can potentially access these credentials, which may include administrative passwords, API keys, or other sensitive authentication tokens.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential exposure, as it fundamentally undermines the security model of the IBM Security Key Lifecycle Manager solution. Local users with root access can exploit this weakness to gain unauthorized access to systems protected by the key management solution, potentially leading to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive data. The vulnerability creates a persistent backdoor that remains active after installation, as the unencrypted credentials persist on the system and can be accessed by any user with root privileges. This weakness aligns with ATT&CK technique T1552.001, which covers the exploitation of credentials stored in files, and represents a classic example of privilege escalation through credential theft. The impact is particularly severe for organizations relying on key management solutions, as compromised credentials could lead to unauthorized key generation, distribution, or modification activities that would undermine the entire cryptographic infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate attention and should include comprehensive system hardening measures, proper credential management protocols, and regular security assessments of installation processes. Organizations should implement mandatory encryption of all credential storage mechanisms, regardless of installation phase, and ensure that no sensitive information is stored in plaintext formats. The recommended approach involves deploying automated credential management solutions that enforce encryption of all sensitive data, implementing strict access controls to installation directories, and conducting regular forensic audits to detect any unauthorized credential access. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing monitoring solutions that can detect unauthorized access to credential storage locations and establish clear procedures for credential lifecycle management that prevent the storage of sensitive information in unencrypted formats. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of following security best practices during software installation processes and underscores the need for comprehensive security controls that address both network-based and local system threats.