CVE-2017-15113 in ovirt-engine
Summary
by MITRE
ovirt-engine before version 4.1.7.6 with log level set to DEBUG includes passwords in the log file without masking. Only administrators can change the log level and only administrators can access the logs. This presents a risk when debug-level logs are shared with vendors or other parties to troubleshoot issues.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/05/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-15113 affects the ovirt-engine platform version 4.1.7.6 and earlier, presenting a significant security risk through improper logging practices. This issue manifests when the system operates with debug-level logging enabled, creating a scenario where sensitive authentication credentials become exposed in plain text within log files. The vulnerability represents a failure in proper information sanitization and access control implementation, as it allows password exposure without adequate masking or obfuscation mechanisms. Organizations utilizing this platform face potential credential compromise when debug logs containing unmasked passwords are inadvertently shared with third parties during troubleshooting operations.
The technical flaw stems from the platform's logging configuration where authentication parameters, specifically passwords, are written to log files without appropriate sanitization measures. This behavior occurs exclusively when the log level is set to DEBUG mode, indicating that the system's logging subsystem lacks proper credential filtering or redaction capabilities. The vulnerability operates at the application level and demonstrates poor adherence to secure coding practices and information security principles. From a cybersecurity perspective, this represents a classic case of sensitive data exposure through insecure logging practices, which falls under the category of information exposure vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential exposure, as it creates potential attack vectors for malicious actors who might gain access to debug log files through various means. Even though access to log files is restricted to administrators, the risk increases when organizations share debug logs with vendors or support personnel for troubleshooting purposes. This scenario creates a privilege escalation path where unauthorized parties could potentially access sensitive authentication information, leading to unauthorized system access and potential data breaches. The vulnerability directly violates fundamental security principles regarding least privilege access and proper information handling.
Security controls and mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper log sanitization procedures and access controls. Organizations must ensure that password fields and other sensitive information are automatically masked or redacted in log files regardless of the logging level. The implementation of centralized log management systems with automated filtering capabilities can help prevent credential exposure. Additionally, regular security audits should verify that logging configurations do not inadvertently expose sensitive information. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-532, which addresses information exposure through log files, and relates to ATT&CK technique T1562.006 for Credential Access through log file manipulation. Organizations should also implement strict access controls for debug logging functionality and establish clear procedures for handling sensitive log data during vendor collaboration or support activities.