CVE-2019-10195 in Ipa
Summary
by MITRE
A flaw was found in IPA, all 4.6.x versions before 4.6.7, all 4.7.x versions before 4.7.4 and all 4.8.x versions before 4.8.3, in the way that FreeIPA's batch processing API logged operations. This included passing user passwords in clear text on FreeIPA masters. Batch processing of commands with passwords as arguments or options is not performed by default in FreeIPA but is possible by third-party components. An attacker having access to system logs on FreeIPA masters could use this flaw to produce log file content with passwords exposed.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/15/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-10195 resides within the FreeIPA identity management system, specifically affecting versions prior to 4.6.7, 4.7.4, and 4.8.3 across their respective release lines. This flaw represents a critical security oversight in the batch processing API's logging mechanism, where sensitive authentication credentials were being stored in plaintext within system log files. The issue stems from the improper handling of user passwords during batch operations, creating a scenario where authentication tokens could be extracted from log files by unauthorized parties with access to the FreeIPA master servers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the batch processing functionality of FreeIPA's API, which operates under the Common Weakness Enumeration framework as a CWE-532: Insertion of Sensitive Information into Log File. The flaw manifests when third-party components invoke batch processing commands that include passwords as arguments or options, although this functionality is not enabled by default within the standard FreeIPA installation. This design decision creates an attack surface where the default security measures fail to protect sensitive data, particularly when system administrators or malicious actors with log file access can extract plaintext credentials from the system's audit trails.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential exposure, as it fundamentally undermines the integrity of the identity management infrastructure. Attackers with access to FreeIPA master server logs can directly extract user passwords in clear text format, potentially enabling them to escalate privileges, gain unauthorized access to additional systems, or conduct further attacks within the network perimeter. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations that maintain extensive logging practices or those where privileged system access is not properly restricted, as it creates a persistent threat vector that remains active even after the initial batch operation completes. The exposure occurs through the system's logging infrastructure rather than through network interception or direct API manipulation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-10195 require immediate implementation of version upgrades to FreeIPA 4.6.7, 4.7.4, or 4.8.3, depending on the affected release line. Organizations should also implement strict access controls on system log files, ensuring that only authorized personnel can access these sensitive audit trails. Additional defensive measures include disabling batch processing functionality when not required, implementing log rotation with secure deletion policies, and monitoring for unauthorized access attempts to system log directories. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1070.001: Indicator Removal on Host, as it creates persistent evidence of credential exposure that could be exploited by attackers. Organizations should also consider implementing centralized logging solutions with proper access controls and regular security audits to prevent similar vulnerabilities from persisting in their identity management infrastructure.