CVE-2018-1090 in Pulp
Summary
by MITRE
In Pulp before version 2.16.2, secrets are passed into override_config when triggering a task and then become readable to all users with read access on the distributor/importer. An attacker with API access can then view these secrets.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/28/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-1090 affects the Pulp content management system prior to version 2.16.2, representing a critical security flaw in how the system handles sensitive configuration data. This issue stems from improper handling of secrets within the task execution framework where sensitive information is passed through the override_config parameter during task triggering operations. The flaw creates an inherent security weakness that allows unauthorized access to confidential data through legitimate system interfaces.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the insecure storage and transmission of secrets within the Pulp task management system. When administrators or automated processes initiate tasks through the system's API, sensitive configuration parameters including authentication credentials, encryption keys, and other privileged information are passed through the override_config mechanism. These parameters are subsequently stored in a manner that does not adequately protect their confidentiality, making them accessible to any user who possesses read permissions on the relevant distributor or importer components. This design flaw violates fundamental security principles of information hiding and privilege separation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, creating potential pathways for privilege escalation and credential theft within content management environments. Attackers with minimal API access can exploit this vulnerability to extract sensitive configuration data that may include database connection strings, service account credentials, and other privileged access tokens. This access can enable further exploitation attempts including unauthorized content manipulation, system compromise through credential reuse, and potential lateral movement within the affected infrastructure. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on Pulp for content distribution and management, particularly those operating in environments where API access is not strictly controlled.
The security implications align with CWE-540 Information Exposure Through Persistent Storage and CWE-200 Information Exposure, as the system fails to properly protect sensitive data during storage and transmission. This vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1552.001 Unsecured Credentials, where attackers can harvest sensitive information from system components. Organizations using Pulp should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to version 2.16.2 or later, implementing strict access controls on API endpoints, and conducting thorough audits of stored configuration parameters. Additional protective measures include regular monitoring for unauthorized access attempts, implementing network segmentation for API access, and establishing automated credential rotation processes to minimize the impact of potential exposure. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and secure configuration management in distributed systems where sensitive data flows through automated processes.