CVE-2016-4980 in xquest
Summary
by MITRE
A password generation weakness exists in xquest through 2016-06-13.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/28/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-4980 represents a significant cryptographic weakness in the xquest software system that was active until June 13, 2016. This issue falls under the broader category of weak cryptographic implementations that can compromise the security of authentication mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically targets the password generation algorithm used within the xquest platform, creating potential attack vectors for malicious actors seeking unauthorized access to systems protected by this software. The weakness manifests in the predictable or insufficiently random nature of generated passwords, which can be exploited through various cryptographic analysis techniques to bypass authentication controls.
The technical flaw in xquest stems from inadequate entropy generation during password creation processes, resulting in passwords that do not meet minimum security requirements for cryptographic strength. This weakness aligns with CWE-330, which addresses the use of insufficiently random values in cryptographic contexts, and represents a failure to implement proper random number generation mechanisms. The implementation likely uses predictable seeding methods or insufficiently complex algorithms that produce passwords vulnerable to pattern recognition and brute force attacks. Attackers could potentially reverse engineer the password generation process or predict future passwords based on observed patterns, particularly when the system generates multiple passwords in sequence.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple authentication bypasses, as compromised passwords can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized data access. Organizations relying on xquest for password management or authentication services would face elevated risk of credential theft, privilege escalation, and potential lateral movement within their networks. This vulnerability particularly affects environments where xquest is used for automated password generation, as the predictability of generated credentials creates a persistent threat vector. The exposure period until June 13, 2016, indicates that numerous systems could have been vulnerable for an extended timeframe, potentially allowing attackers to harvest credentials and maintain persistent access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-4980 require immediate implementation of cryptographic best practices including the adoption of cryptographically secure random number generators, proper entropy sources, and adherence to established security standards such as NIST SP 800-90A for random number generation. Organizations should implement regular security assessments to identify similar weaknesses in password generation mechanisms and ensure compliance with industry standards including those referenced in the ATT&CK framework under credential access techniques. The remediation process must involve complete replacement of the vulnerable password generation algorithm with properly implemented cryptographic functions that meet current security requirements, along with comprehensive testing to verify the strength and unpredictability of generated credentials. Additionally, system administrators should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify any other components that may have been affected by similar cryptographic weaknesses during the vulnerable period.