CVE-2014-8035 in WebEx Meetings Server
Summary
by MITRE
The web framework in Cisco WebEx Meetings Server produces different returned messages for URL requests depending on whether a username exists, which allows remote attackers to enumerate user accounts via a series of requests, aka Bug ID CSCuj40247.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/09/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-8035 resides within Cisco WebEx Meetings Server's web framework and represents a classic account enumeration flaw that exposes system security through inconsistent error messaging. This vulnerability operates on the fundamental principle that when a system processes authentication requests, it should provide uniform responses regardless of whether the requested account exists or not. The flaw manifests when the server generates different HTTP responses or error messages for valid and invalid username attempts, creating a side-channel attack vector that adversaries can exploit to determine which accounts are active within the system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the web framework's inconsistent handling of authentication requests where the server's response varies based on account existence status. When an attacker submits a URL request with a username that does not exist, the server returns a different response than when a valid username is submitted. This differential response behavior creates a predictable pattern that allows for automated enumeration attacks. The vulnerability specifically affects the authentication processing logic within the WebEx Meetings Server, where the framework fails to normalize error responses across different account states, making it possible for threat actors to systematically test usernames and infer which ones are valid based on the server's response timing or content differences.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables remote attackers to conduct systematic user enumeration attacks without requiring prior authentication credentials. The attack surface is particularly concerning for organizations using Cisco WebEx Meetings Server as it allows adversaries to build comprehensive lists of valid user accounts that can subsequently be targeted for credential stuffing, brute force attacks, or social engineering campaigns. The vulnerability essentially provides attackers with a reconnaissance tool that can be automated to quickly identify valid usernames within the system, significantly reducing the complexity of subsequent attack phases. According to the MITRE ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to the credential access tactics and techniques, specifically leveraging information discovery and credential dumping methods to gather intelligence about system users.
The security implications extend beyond simple account enumeration as this vulnerability can serve as a precursor to more sophisticated attacks within the broader attack chain. Once valid usernames are identified, attackers can leverage this information for targeted phishing campaigns, password spraying attacks, or combine it with other vulnerabilities to escalate privileges. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers can exploit it from any location without requiring physical access or network proximity to the target system. Organizations utilizing Cisco WebEx Meetings Server should consider implementing additional security controls such as rate limiting, account lockout mechanisms, and monitoring for unusual authentication patterns to mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability.
The underlying cause of this issue aligns with CWE-200, which describes improper information exposure, as the system unintentionally reveals information about account existence through its response behavior. This vulnerability also relates to CWE-305, which addresses authentication bypass through improper implementation, as the enumeration capability undermines the system's ability to maintain proper authentication security boundaries. Organizations should ensure that their web applications implement consistent error handling practices where all authentication attempts return identical responses to prevent information leakage. The remediation approach typically involves updating to patched versions of Cisco WebEx Meetings Server or implementing compensating controls that normalize response behavior across different authentication scenarios.