CVE-2017-12315 in HyperFlex System
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability in system logging when replication is being configured with the Cisco HyperFlex System could allow an authenticated, local attacker to view sensitive information that should be restricted in the system log files. The attacker would have to be authenticated as an administrative user to conduct this attack. The vulnerability is due to lack of proper masking of sensitive information in system log files. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by authenticating to the targeted device and viewing the system log file. An exploit could allow the attacker to view sensitive system information that should have been restricted. The attacker could use this information to conduct additional reconnaissance attacks. Cisco Bug IDs: CSCvg31472.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/24/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-12315 resides within the Cisco HyperFlex System's logging mechanisms during replication configuration processes. This weakness represents a critical security flaw that undermines the system's ability to properly protect sensitive information within its operational logs. The vulnerability specifically affects the system's logging infrastructure when replication configurations are being established, creating an unintended exposure of confidential data that should remain protected from unauthorized access. The flaw stems from inadequate implementation of information masking protocols within the system's logging framework, allowing sensitive data to persist in log files in an unobfuscated format.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an authenticated administrative user to gain access to the targeted system, as the attack vector specifically necessitates administrative privileges for successful execution. This authentication requirement places the vulnerability within the realm of insider threats or compromised administrative accounts, making it particularly concerning for organizations with robust access controls. The flaw manifests when system log files are generated during replication configuration processes, where sensitive information such as passwords, encryption keys, or other confidential system data is not properly masked or redacted before being written to log files. The vulnerability directly correlates to CWE-200, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information to an unauthorized actor, and represents a failure in proper data sanitization during logging operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the exposed sensitive data could serve as a foundation for more sophisticated attacks. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain access to system credentials, configuration details, or other confidential information that would otherwise remain protected. This reconnaissance data could then be leveraged to conduct further attacks including privilege escalation, lateral movement, or targeted exploitation of other system components. The vulnerability creates a persistent information leak that could be exploited over time, as log files may be retained for extended periods and accessed by various system administrators or security tools. This exposure aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083, which covers the discovery of system information through log file analysis and reconnaissance activities.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including enhanced log file monitoring, regular log file audits, and implementation of proper log sanitization procedures. The recommended approach involves configuring the system to automatically mask or redact sensitive information before logging, ensuring that administrative access to logs does not inadvertently expose confidential data. Additionally, organizations should establish strict access controls for log files, implementing role-based access controls that limit who can view system logs and when. Regular security assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar logging vulnerabilities across the infrastructure. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper information handling in system logs, as even authenticated administrative users should not be able to access sensitive information through normal operational procedures. Cisco has addressed this vulnerability through software updates that implement proper masking of sensitive information in system log files, emphasizing the need for organizations to maintain current security patches and updates to protect against such exposure risks.