CVE-2021-25422 in Watch Active PlugIn
Summary
by MITRE • 06/11/2021
Improper log management vulnerability in Watch Active PlugIn prior to version 2.2.07.21033151 allows attacker with log permissions to leak Wi-Fi password connected to the user smartphone within log.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/14/2021
The CVE-2021-25422 vulnerability represents a critical improper log management flaw in the Watch Active PlugIn software, specifically affecting versions prior to 2.2.07.21033151. This vulnerability stems from inadequate handling of sensitive information within application logs, creating a significant security risk for users of mobile devices that connect to wireless networks through the plugin. The issue manifests when attackers with sufficient log access permissions can extract Wi-Fi password information from the application logs, potentially compromising wireless network security.
The technical flaw resides in the application's logging mechanism where sensitive authentication credentials are not properly sanitized or redacted before being written to log files. This misconfiguration allows for the accidental exposure of confidential information including Wi-Fi passwords that are associated with user smartphones. The vulnerability demonstrates poor secure coding practices and inadequate input validation, as the system fails to recognize that certain data elements within its operational context contain sensitive credentials that should never be persisted in plain text within log files. This weakness aligns with CWE-532, which specifically addresses information exposure through log files containing sensitive data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential leakage, as it provides attackers with the means to gain unauthorized access to wireless networks that users have connected to through their smartphones. When combined with the Watch Active PlugIn's functionality, which likely manages device connectivity and network authentication, the exposure of Wi-Fi passwords creates a pathway for attackers to establish persistent network access. This risk is particularly concerning in environments where multiple devices connect to the same network, as a single compromised credential can potentially lead to broader network infiltration. The vulnerability also contributes to the broader category of credential exposure attacks that fall under ATT&CK technique T1552, specifically targeting credentials in files.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-25422 should focus on implementing proper log sanitization protocols and ensuring that sensitive information is never written to log files in their original form. Organizations should update to version 2.2.07.21033151 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the improper log management issue. Additionally, system administrators should implement log access controls to limit who can view application logs and establish monitoring procedures to detect unauthorized log file access attempts. The remediation process should include comprehensive log review to identify and remove any previously exposed credentials, while also implementing automated tools to prevent future occurrences of sensitive data leakage in log files. Security teams should also consider implementing network segmentation and additional authentication layers to limit the potential impact of credential exposure in case the vulnerability is exploited.