CVE-2015-3978 in Sybase Unwired Platform Online Data Proxy
Summary
by MITRE
SAP Sybase Unwired Platform Online Data Proxy allows local users to obtain usernames and passwords via the DataVault, aka SAP Security Note 2094830.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/10/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-3978 affects SAP Sybase Unwired Platform Online Data Proxy, a component within the broader SAP ecosystem designed for mobile application development and data synchronization. This flaw represents a critical security weakness that exposes sensitive authentication credentials stored within the DataVault component of the platform. The vulnerability specifically impacts local users who can exploit this weakness to extract usernames and passwords, potentially compromising the entire authentication infrastructure of the affected system.
The technical mechanism underlying this vulnerability involves improper access controls within the DataVault storage system. When local users interact with the Online Data Proxy component, they can leverage specific API calls or data access patterns that bypass normal authentication mechanisms. This allows unauthorized access to credential storage areas where user authentication data is maintained. The flaw essentially creates a backdoor within the platform's own security architecture, enabling local attackers to extract stored credentials without proper authorization. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-284 access control weakness category, specifically related to insufficient privileges and improper access control mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the system's authentication infrastructure. Once credentials are extracted, attackers can potentially escalate their privileges, access additional system components, or use the stolen credentials to compromise other systems within the network. The vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where SAP Sybase Unwired Platform is deployed for mobile application management, as these systems often contain sensitive business data and serve as integration points for various corporate applications. Organizations using this platform face significant risk of unauthorized access to mobile application backends and associated data stores.
Organizations should implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies to address this vulnerability effectively. Immediate patching through SAP security note 2094830 represents the primary remediation approach, as it addresses the underlying access control flaw in the DataVault component. Network segmentation should be implemented to limit local access to critical system components, while strict monitoring and logging of DataVault access patterns can help detect unauthorized credential extraction attempts. Additionally, organizations should enforce principle of least privilege access controls, ensuring that only authorized personnel have local access to the affected system components. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper credential management and storage practices, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1555.003 for credential access through data vaults and storage components. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar access control weaknesses in other enterprise systems and ensure comprehensive protection against credential theft attacks.