CVE-2019-3741 in Unity
Summary
by MITRE
Dell EMC Unity and UnityVSA versions prior to 5.0.0.0.5.116 contain a plain-text password storage vulnerability. A Unisphere user?s (including the admin privilege user) password is stored in a plain text in Unity Data Collection bundle (logs files for troubleshooting). A local authenticated attacker with access to the Data Collection bundle may use the exposed password to gain access with the privileges of the compromised user.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/01/2023
This vulnerability affects Dell EMC Unity and UnityVSA storage systems running versions prior to 5.0.0.0.5.116, representing a critical weakness in password storage practices that directly violates fundamental security principles. The flaw manifests when system administrators generate Data Collection bundles for troubleshooting purposes, which contain sensitive information including user credentials stored in plain text format rather than being properly encrypted or hashed. This represents a clear violation of security best practices and industry standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten, where improper data protection and credential handling constitute significant security risks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of authentication credentials within the system's diagnostic packaging process. When Unisphere generates Data Collection bundles, it includes log files that contain user passwords in their original, unencrypted form, creating a persistent exposure vector for any individual who gains access to these diagnostic archives. This weakness specifically falls under CWE-312, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper data handling, and more broadly aligns with CWE-522, concerning insufficiently protected credentials. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects all user accounts including administrative privileges, meaning that a successful exploitation could potentially provide full system access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it creates a persistent backdoor for attackers who gain access to the Data Collection bundles. An attacker with local access to the system who can obtain these diagnostic archives can immediately extract and utilize the exposed passwords to authenticate as legitimate users, potentially escalating privileges and gaining unauthorized access to sensitive data and system controls. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1078.004, which covers valid accounts with default passwords, and represents a significant risk to the confidentiality and integrity of storage environments. The exposure occurs during routine troubleshooting activities, making it particularly dangerous as it can go undetected for extended periods while legitimate system maintenance activities are performed.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate version upgrades to Dell EMC Unity and UnityVSA 5.0.0.0.5.116 or later, which contain the necessary patches to address the plain-text password storage issue. Organizations should also implement strict access controls on Data Collection bundles, ensuring that these sensitive archives are stored securely and only accessible to authorized personnel with legitimate troubleshooting needs. Additional controls include regular monitoring for unauthorized access attempts to system diagnostic files, implementing network segmentation to limit access to storage systems, and establishing proper data handling procedures for troubleshooting activities. Security teams should also consider disabling unnecessary diagnostic collection features when not actively troubleshooting and implement automated scanning for exposed credentials in system logs and archives. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure configuration management and proper data handling practices in storage environments, reinforcing the need for comprehensive security awareness training for system administrators and IT personnel who handle sensitive diagnostic information.