CVE-2017-14376 in AppSync Server
Summary
by MITRE
EMC AppSync Server prior to 3.5.0.1 contains database accounts with hardcoded passwords that could potentially be exploited by malicious users to compromise the affected system.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/02/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-14376 affects EMC AppSync Server versions prior to 3.5.0.1, representing a critical security flaw that stems from the improper handling of database authentication credentials. This issue manifests through the presence of hardcoded passwords within database accounts that are embedded directly into the application code or configuration files, creating a persistent security risk that remains unchangeable through normal administrative procedures. The flaw directly violates fundamental security principles by eliminating the possibility for system administrators to modify or rotate authentication credentials, effectively creating a backdoor that remains active regardless of security updates or administrative interventions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the inclusion of static password values within the application's database connection strings or account configurations, which are typically stored in configuration files or source code repositories. These hardcoded credentials are often set during initial installation and remain unchanged throughout the system's operational lifecycle, providing persistent access points for attackers who can discover these values through various means including code analysis, configuration file enumeration, or by exploiting other vulnerabilities that might reveal system internals. The flaw falls under the CWE-798 category of Using Hardcoded Credentials, which is classified as a high-risk vulnerability due to the permanent nature of hardcoded authentication information that cannot be easily modified or removed without system reinstallation.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for organizations relying on EMC AppSync Server as it provides potential attackers with persistent access to the underlying database infrastructure. The impact extends beyond simple unauthorized access to include potential data exfiltration, data corruption, or system compromise through lateral movement within the network. Attackers can leverage these hardcoded credentials to establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges, or gain access to sensitive information stored within the database, potentially affecting multiple systems that depend on the AppSync server for data synchronization and management operations. The vulnerability particularly affects environments where database access is required for application functionality, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to exploit weak authentication mechanisms.
The exploitation of this vulnerability typically requires minimal technical skill and can be accomplished through standard reconnaissance techniques that involve identifying exposed configuration files, analyzing application code repositories, or leveraging other vulnerabilities that provide access to system internals. Security professionals should consider this issue in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically under the T1078 technique of Valid Accounts, where adversaries use legitimate credentials to maintain access to systems and networks. The vulnerability also relates to T1566 which covers Social Engineering techniques, as attackers may discover these hardcoded credentials through information gathering activities or by exploiting publicly available information that reveals system configuration details. Organizations should implement comprehensive monitoring and detection capabilities to identify unauthorized access attempts using these hardcoded credentials and establish automated systems for credential rotation and account management.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-14376 should focus on immediate remediation through upgrading to EMC AppSync Server version 3.5.0.1 or later, which addresses the hardcoded credential issue through proper credential management and secure configuration practices. System administrators should conduct thorough inventory assessments to identify any remaining hardcoded credentials within their environment and implement centralized credential management solutions that prevent the use of static passwords in application configurations. Additionally, organizations should establish regular security auditing procedures that include code reviews and configuration assessments to identify similar hardcoded credential issues across their IT infrastructure. The implementation of principle of least privilege access controls, multi-factor authentication mechanisms, and regular credential rotation policies should be enforced to minimize the impact of any remaining credential-related vulnerabilities and ensure comprehensive protection against unauthorized access attempts.