CVE-2016-3192 in Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Cloudera Manager 5.x before 5.7.1 places Sensitive Data in cleartext Readable Files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/28/2024
Cloudera Manager version 5.x prior to 5.7.1 contains a critical security flaw that allows sensitive data to be stored in cleartext within readable files, creating a significant vulnerability in enterprise data management systems. This issue affects organizations using Cloudera's big data platform management solution, where sensitive information including database credentials, API keys, and other confidential data may be exposed through improperly secured configuration files. The vulnerability stems from inadequate data protection mechanisms within the software's file handling processes, allowing unauthorized access to critical system information through simple file reading operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the storage of sensitive information in configuration files without proper encryption or access controls. Attackers can exploit this weakness by gaining access to the system files where Cloudera Manager stores authentication credentials and other confidential data in plain text format. This flaw represents a direct violation of security best practices and exposes organizations to potential credential theft, unauthorized system access, and data breaches. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where Cloudera Manager is used to manage large-scale distributed computing clusters containing sensitive corporate data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential exposure, potentially enabling attackers to escalate privileges and gain deeper access to the entire data infrastructure managed by Cloudera Manager. Organizations may face regulatory compliance violations, financial losses, and reputational damage when sensitive data is compromised through cleartext storage practices. The vulnerability also affects the overall security posture of organizations relying on Cloudera's platform, as it creates opportunities for attackers to move laterally within networks and access additional systems. This flaw particularly impacts industries with strict data protection requirements such as financial services, healthcare, and government sectors.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to Cloudera Manager version 5.7.1 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the cleartext storage vulnerability. System administrators should conduct thorough file access reviews to identify any existing cleartext sensitive data within configuration files and implement proper encryption mechanisms for all sensitive information. Additional security measures include implementing file permission controls, regular security audits, and monitoring for unauthorized file access attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-312 (Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information) and represents a significant risk under ATT&CK technique T1552.001 (Credentials in Files) which emphasizes the importance of protecting stored credentials from unauthorized access. Organizations should also consider implementing automated security scanning tools to detect similar vulnerabilities in other software components and establish robust security policies for managing sensitive data throughout the system lifecycle.