CVE-2017-7512 in 3scale API Management Platform
Summary
by MITRE
Red Hat 3scale (aka RH-3scale) API Management Platform (AMP) before 2.0.0 would permit creation of an access token without a client secret. An attacker could use this flaw to circumvent authentication controls and gain access to restricted APIs. NOTE: some sources have a typo in which CVE-2017-7512 maps to an OpenVPN vulnerability. The proper CVE ID for that OpenVPN vulnerability is CVE-2017-7521. Specifically, CVE-2017-7521 is the correct CVE ID for TWO closely related findings in OpenVPN. Any source that lists BOTH CVE-2017-7512 and CVE-2017-7521 for OpenVPN should have listed ONLY CVE-2017-7521.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/12/2022
The vulnerability described in CVE-2017-7512 affects the Red Hat 3scale API Management Platform AMP version prior to 2.0.0, representing a critical authentication bypass flaw that undermines the security posture of API management systems. This vulnerability resides in the platform's token generation mechanism where access tokens can be created without requiring a valid client secret, fundamentally compromising the authentication controls that are essential for protecting API resources. The flaw allows unauthorized parties to bypass normal authentication procedures and gain access to restricted APIs, making it particularly dangerous in environments where API security is paramount. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-287 which specifically addresses authentication failures, and it aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078.004 related to valid accounts and credential access, as it enables unauthorized access through manipulated token creation processes. The issue stems from insufficient validation of client credentials during the token generation workflow, creating a pathway for attackers to exploit the system's trust model.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the platform's OAuth 2.0 implementation where the system fails to properly validate client secrets before issuing access tokens. When an attacker crafts a request to generate an access token, the system accepts the request without verifying that a legitimate client secret was provided, allowing the creation of tokens that can access protected resources. This weakness represents a classic example of insufficient input validation and authentication control enforcement, where the system assumes the legitimacy of requests without proper credential verification. The flaw essentially creates a backdoor mechanism within the authentication flow, where the absence of client secret validation enables arbitrary token generation. The impact is significant because it allows attackers to gain unauthorized access to APIs that should only be accessible to authenticated clients with proper credentials, potentially leading to data breaches, unauthorized API usage, and service abuse. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that it operates at the authentication layer, making it a critical point of failure in the security architecture.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-7512 extends beyond simple unauthorized access, creating potential for extensive damage within API ecosystems and service environments. Organizations using vulnerable versions of 3scale AMP could experience unauthorized consumption of API resources, leading to service degradation, increased costs, and potential data exposure. The vulnerability enables attackers to create persistent access tokens that can be used to access sensitive APIs and data without detection, as the system does not enforce proper client credential validation. This flaw particularly affects organizations that rely on 3scale for API management and security, as it undermines the trust model that the platform is designed to maintain. The vulnerability also creates challenges for security monitoring and incident response, as unauthorized access may go undetected for extended periods. Organizations may face compliance violations if sensitive data is accessed through this vulnerability, as it represents a failure to maintain proper access controls and authentication mechanisms. The flaw can be exploited by both internal and external attackers who gain knowledge of the vulnerable system, making it a particularly concerning issue for organizations with extensive API portfolios.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-7512 focus on immediate remediation through version upgrades to 3scale AMP 2.0.0 or later, which properly implements client secret validation during token generation. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify any unauthorized access that may have occurred through exploitation of this flaw, and implement enhanced monitoring of token generation activities. Security teams should review and strengthen API access controls, ensuring that all client credentials are properly validated before token issuance. The implementation of additional security measures such as token revocation mechanisms, enhanced logging of authentication events, and regular security audits of API access patterns can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing network-level controls to restrict access to API management interfaces and ensure that only authorized systems can interact with the vulnerable components. The fix addresses the root cause by enforcing proper client credential validation, aligning with industry best practices for OAuth 2.0 implementation and security controls. Regular security updates and patch management processes should be strengthened to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in the future, with particular attention to authentication and authorization mechanisms within API management platforms.