CVE-2015-0514 in Watch4Net
Summary
by MITRE
EMC M&R (aka Watch4Net) before 6.5u1 and ViPR SRM before 3.6.1 might allow remote attackers to obtain cleartext data-center discovery credentials by leveraging certain SRM access to conduct a decryption attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/01/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-0514 affects EMC Monitoring and Reporting (M&R) software, also known as Watch4Net, and ViPR SRM versions prior to 6.5u1 and 3.6.1 respectively. This security flaw represents a significant concern for organizations relying on these platforms for data center monitoring and management operations. The vulnerability stems from insufficient cryptographic protection mechanisms that allow unauthorized parties to extract sensitive authentication credentials during the data center discovery process. The flaw specifically impacts systems where the SRM (Storage Resource Manager) components have been configured with certain access permissions that enable attackers to perform decryption operations against stored credentials.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the improper handling of encrypted data within the SRM framework. Attackers can exploit the weak encryption mechanisms or flawed key management processes to reverse-engineer or decrypt stored credentials used for data center discovery operations. This typically occurs when the system employs inadequate cryptographic algorithms or when the encryption keys are either stored in accessible locations or generated using predictable methods. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to gain access to legitimate administrative credentials that could be used to compromise the entire monitoring infrastructure. The attack vector leverages existing access privileges within the SRM environment to execute decryption operations against credential storage mechanisms, effectively bypassing authentication layers designed to protect sensitive information.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it can enable attackers to gain comprehensive access to data center monitoring systems. Once attackers obtain the cleartext credentials, they can perform unauthorized discovery operations, monitor system activities, and potentially manipulate or disrupt critical infrastructure monitoring functions. This represents a serious compromise of the principle of least privilege, as the vulnerability allows attackers to escalate their access level within the monitoring environment. Organizations using affected versions may experience unauthorized access to sensitive infrastructure data, potential data exfiltration, and disruption of normal monitoring operations that could mask additional security incidents. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to establish persistent access points within the data center environment, as they can use the legitimate credentials to move laterally through the monitoring infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected systems to the recommended versions that address the cryptographic weaknesses. Organizations should implement comprehensive credential management policies that include regular rotation of discovery credentials and the use of stronger encryption algorithms for credential storage. The implementation of network segmentation and access control measures can help limit the potential impact of credential compromise by restricting access to critical monitoring components. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough security assessments to identify any systems that may be vulnerable to similar cryptographic weaknesses and implement monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized access attempts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-310, which addresses cryptographic weaknesses, and represents a clear violation of the principle of secure key management as outlined in NIST SP 800-57. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1552.001 (Unsecured Credentials) and T1078 (Valid Accounts) as attackers can leverage compromised credentials to maintain persistent access to the monitored infrastructure.