CVE-2018-20105 in Linux Enterprise Server 15
Summary
by MITRE
A Inclusion of Sensitive Information in Log Files vulnerability in yast2-rmt of SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15; openSUSE Leap allows local attackers to learn the password if they can access the log file. This issue affects: SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15 yast2-rmt versions prior to 1.2.2. openSUSE Leap yast2-rmt versions prior to 1.2.2.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/30/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-20105 represents a critical information disclosure flaw within the yast2-rmt package of SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15 and openSUSE Leap systems. This issue stems from improper handling of sensitive data during logging operations, creating an avenue for local attackers to extract confidential authentication credentials. The vulnerability specifically impacts systems where the yast2-rmt service is installed and configured, with affected versions prior to 1.2.2 being particularly susceptible to exploitation. The flaw manifests when the system logs contain unredacted password information, which should never be persisted in plaintext within log files under any circumstances.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the logging mechanisms of the yast2-rmt service, which fails to properly sanitize or redact sensitive parameters during the logging process. When authentication operations occur within the remote management tool, the password credentials are inadvertently written to log files in their original form without adequate obfuscation or filtering. This represents a direct violation of security best practices and constitutes a classic example of insecure logging that exposes privileged information to unauthorized local users. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-532, which specifically addresses the inclusion of sensitive information in log files, and demonstrates poor input validation and output sanitization practices within the application's logging subsystem.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it provides attackers with a persistent means of gaining unauthorized access to system management interfaces. Local attackers who can read system log files can immediately extract password information and potentially escalate their privileges or gain administrative control over the affected systems. This threat is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15 is deployed, as these systems often contain critical infrastructure components where unauthorized access could result in significant operational disruption or data compromise. The vulnerability creates a persistent backdoor that remains active until the affected software is properly updated, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking long-term access to managed systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-20105 must prioritize immediate software patching to versions 1.2.2 or later where the logging sanitization has been properly implemented. System administrators should conduct comprehensive inventory assessments to identify all affected systems running vulnerable versions of yast2-rmt and prioritize remediation efforts accordingly. Additionally, security teams should implement proactive log monitoring to detect any unauthorized access attempts or suspicious activities that might indicate exploitation of this vulnerability. The remediation process should include reviewing existing log files for any potential exposure of sensitive information and implementing proper log rotation and access controls to prevent unauthorized access to system logs. Organizations should also consider implementing the principle of least privilege for log file access and establish regular security auditing procedures to identify similar vulnerabilities in other system components. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper input sanitization and output filtering in security-sensitive applications, particularly those handling authentication credentials and privileged operations.