CVE-2015-8749 in Compute
Summary
by MITRE
The volume_utils._parse_volume_info function in OpenStack Compute (Nova) before 2015.1.3 (kilo) and 12.0.x before 12.0.1 (liberty) includes the connection_info dictionary in the StorageError message when using the Xen backend, which might allow attackers to obtain sensitive password information by reading log files or other unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/03/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-8749 resides within the OpenStack Compute service known as Nova, specifically affecting versions prior to 2015.1.3 (kilo) and 12.0.1 (liberty). This issue manifests in the volume_utils._parse_volume_info function which handles volume information parsing when utilizing the Xen hypervisor backend. The flaw represents a critical security oversight that exposes sensitive authentication credentials through improper error handling mechanisms. The vulnerability stems from the function's inclusion of the complete connection_info dictionary within StorageError messages, creating a potential information disclosure vector that could compromise system security.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the improper handling of connection metadata within error reporting mechanisms. When Nova encounters issues during volume operations with Xen backends, the error messages contain the full connection_info dictionary which typically includes authentication tokens, passwords, and other sensitive credential information. This occurs because the error handling code directly incorporates the connection_info structure into the error message without sanitizing or filtering out sensitive components. The flaw aligns with CWE-209, which addresses the improper handling of exception information that can lead to information disclosure, and represents a classic case of insufficient output sanitization in error reporting systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential exposure, as it creates multiple attack vectors for malicious actors. Attackers who can access log files or other error reporting mechanisms gain access to authentication credentials that could be used to compromise storage systems and potentially escalate privileges within the OpenStack environment. The vulnerability particularly affects Xen-based deployments where storage operations are common and error conditions are likely to occur. This exposure creates a persistent threat vector that remains active as long as the vulnerable Nova versions are operational, potentially allowing attackers to establish long-term access to storage resources and associated systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-8749 require immediate patching of affected OpenStack Nova installations to versions 2015.1.3 (kilo) or 12.0.1 (liberty) and later. Organizations should also implement comprehensive log monitoring and sanitization procedures to prevent sensitive information from being inadvertently exposed in error messages. System administrators should conduct thorough audits of existing log files to identify and remove any previously exposed credentials, implementing credential rotation procedures for all affected systems. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1562.001, which addresses "Impair Defenses: Disable or Modify Tools," as attackers could leverage exposed credentials to modify or disable security controls within the OpenStack environment. Additional protective measures include implementing strict log access controls, deploying centralized logging solutions with sensitive data filtering, and establishing automated monitoring for credential exposure in system outputs.