CVE-2020-4341 in Security Secret Server
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Security Secret Server 10.7 could allow a remote attacker to obtain sensitive information when a detailed technical error message is returned in the browser. This information could be used in further attacks against the system. IBM X-Force ID: 178181.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/27/2020
IBM Security Secret Server version 10.7 contains a vulnerability that exposes sensitive system information through detailed error messages returned to remote attackers via web browser interfaces. This flaw represents a classic information disclosure vulnerability where the application fails to properly sanitize error responses, allowing attackers to extract potentially valuable data about the system's internal state, configuration, or architecture. The vulnerability falls under the category of improper error handling as defined by CWE-215, which specifically addresses the exposure of sensitive information through error messages that reveal system internals. When an error occurs during application processing, the system returns verbose technical details that include stack traces, internal component names, version information, and potentially database connection details that could be leveraged by threat actors to craft more sophisticated attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information gathering, as it creates a foundation for additional exploitation techniques that align with multiple ATT&CK tactics including reconnaissance and initial access. Attackers can use the disclosed information to identify potential attack vectors, understand system architecture, and plan more targeted assaults against the environment. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the application layer and can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication, making it an attractive target for automated scanning tools. The exposure of internal system details through error messages can reveal database schemas, component versions, and architectural patterns that would otherwise remain hidden from external observation. This type of information leakage significantly reduces the security posture of the affected system and provides threat actors with valuable intelligence for subsequent exploitation phases.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper error handling mechanisms that prevent sensitive information disclosure while maintaining adequate logging for legitimate troubleshooting purposes. Organizations should configure the application to return generic error messages to end users while preserving detailed technical information in server-side logs accessible only to authorized personnel. The implementation of web application firewalls and input validation controls can help filter out potentially malicious requests that might trigger these detailed error responses. Security hardening procedures should include disabling verbose error displays in production environments and implementing centralized logging systems that can monitor for patterns of error message exposure. Regular security testing and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar error handling issues across the application stack. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and network segmentation can limit the potential impact of such information disclosure vulnerabilities by reducing the attack surface and limiting access to sensitive system components.