CVE-2018-7119 in NonStop Safeguard
Summary
by MITRE
A Local Disclosure of Sensitive Information vulnerability was identified in HPE NonStop Safeguard earlier than version SPR T9750L01^AIC or T9750H05^AIH, and later versions when the PASSWORD-PROMPT configuration attribute is not set to BLIND; all versions on H-series. STDSEC-STANDARD SECURITY PROD All prior versions before T6533L01^ADU or T6533H05^ADW, and later versions when the PASSWORD-PROMPT configuration attribute is not set to BLIND and all versions on H-series . Note that some commands in NonStop Safeguard and NonStop Standard Security software require username and password to be passed as command line parameters, which may lead to a local disclosure of the credentials.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/08/2020
This vulnerability represents a critical local information disclosure issue within HPE NonStop Safeguard and NonStop Standard Security software products. The flaw specifically affects systems where the PASSWORD-PROMPT configuration attribute is not properly set to BLIND mode, creating a significant security risk for systems running on H-series hardware. The vulnerability exists in multiple version ranges including SPR T9750L01^AIC or T9750H05^AIH and later versions, as well as prior versions before T6533L01^ADU or T6533H05^ADW, making it a widespread concern across various product iterations. This issue fundamentally compromises the security posture of affected systems by allowing unauthorized local access to sensitive authentication information.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of password prompts within the security framework of these systems. When the PASSWORD-PROMPT attribute is not configured to BLIND mode, the system fails to adequately obscure or protect sensitive credential information during command execution processes. This misconfiguration creates a direct pathway for local attackers to extract authentication credentials that are passed as command line parameters. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages legitimate system functionality to expose sensitive data, making detection more challenging and exploitation more straightforward. The flaw essentially transforms normal authentication processes into vectors for credential theft, bypassing standard security controls that should protect against such disclosures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass potential system compromise and unauthorized access. Local attackers with minimal privileges can exploit this weakness to obtain usernames and passwords, which could then be used for privilege escalation or lateral movement within the network. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which specifically addresses "Information Exposure" and represents a classic example of how improper configuration can lead to security breaches. The attack pattern follows typical local privilege escalation methodologies outlined in MITRE ATT&CK framework under technique T1068, where adversaries leverage system misconfigurations to gain elevated access. The exposure of credentials through command line parameters creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited repeatedly without requiring additional attack vectors.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement configuration changes to set the PASSWORD-PROMPT attribute to BLIND mode across all impacted systems. System administrators must verify that all versions of NonStop Safeguard and NonStop Standard Security software are updated to the latest patches that address this specific issue. The remediation process should include comprehensive system audits to identify all instances where the vulnerable configuration exists. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect potential credential exposure attempts, and access controls should be reviewed to ensure that only authorized personnel have access to systems running vulnerable software versions. Additionally, organizations should implement strict policies governing the use of command line parameters for authentication, as this practice directly contributes to the exploitation of this vulnerability. The remediation approach must also consider the broader security architecture implications, as this vulnerability demonstrates how seemingly minor configuration settings can create significant security risks.