CVE-2015-4940 in Ambari
Summary
by MITRE
Apache Ambari before 2.1, as used in IBM Infosphere BigInsights 4.x before 4.1, stores a cleartext BigSheets password in a configuration file, which allows local users to obtain sensitive information by reading this file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/26/2022
Apache Ambari versions prior to 2.1 contained a critical security flaw that exposed sensitive authentication credentials through improper configuration file handling. This vulnerability specifically affected IBM Infosphere BigInsights 4.x versions before 4.1, creating a significant risk for organizations deploying these systems. The flaw manifested when Ambari stored BigSheets passwords in cleartext format within configuration files, making them accessible to any local user with file system permissions. This design decision violated fundamental security principles by failing to implement proper credential protection mechanisms. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-312, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information through cleartext storage, and represents a classic example of poor secure coding practices. Attackers exploiting this weakness could gain unauthorized access to BigSheets authentication credentials, potentially enabling them to compromise entire data processing pipelines and access sensitive analytical workloads.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it creates a persistent security risk within BigInsights environments. Local users with minimal privileges could leverage this flaw to escalate their access and potentially compromise downstream systems that rely on BigSheets authentication. The configuration file exposure creates a vector for lateral movement within the system, as attackers could use the stolen credentials to access additional services or databases that share the same authentication mechanisms. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations using legacy BigInsights deployments where upgrading to patched versions may not be immediately feasible, creating extended exposure windows. The flaw demonstrates how configuration management issues can create systemic security weaknesses, as proper access controls and encryption mechanisms were not implemented to protect sensitive authentication data.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including restricting file system access to configuration directories containing sensitive information, implementing proper file permissions, and conducting comprehensive audits of credential storage practices. The remediation process requires replacing cleartext passwords with encrypted alternatives and ensuring that all sensitive configuration data is protected through appropriate cryptographic mechanisms. System administrators should also consider implementing additional monitoring and alerting for unauthorized access attempts to configuration files. This vulnerability highlights the importance of following security best practices such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST Cybersecurity Framework, particularly in areas related to credential management and secure configuration. Organizations should also consider implementing privileged access management solutions and regular security assessments to identify similar configuration weaknesses across their infrastructure. The incident serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper secure coding practices and configuration management in preventing information disclosure vulnerabilities that can have far-reaching consequences for enterprise security posture.