CVE-2023-35833 in SAFEQ
Summary
by MITRE • 07/13/2023
An issue was discovered in YSoft SAFEQ 6 Server before 6.0.82. When modifying the URL of the LDAP server configuration from LDAPS to LDAP, the system does not require the password to be (re)entered. This results in exposing cleartext credentials when connecting to a rogue LDAP server.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/02/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-35833 affects YSoft SAFEQ 6 Server versions prior to 6.0.82 and represents a critical security flaw in the directory service configuration management process. This issue stems from inadequate credential validation mechanisms during LDAP server URL modifications, specifically when transitioning from LDAPS (LDAP over SSL) to standard LDAP protocols. The vulnerability exposes a fundamental weakness in the authentication flow where the system fails to enforce credential re-entry requirements, creating a persistent security risk that can be exploited by malicious actors.
The technical flaw manifests when administrators modify LDAP server configurations by changing the URL scheme from LDAPS to LDAP without being prompted to re-enter the administrative password. This design oversight creates a scenario where cleartext credentials remain stored in the system configuration and can be transmitted to unauthorized servers. The vulnerability directly relates to CWE-312, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper handling of credentials. When an attacker successfully compromises the LDAP server or intercepts network traffic, they gain access to the cleartext credentials that were never properly secured during the configuration change process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant for organizations using YSoft SAFEQ 6 Server environments, particularly those relying on LDAP authentication for print management and document workflow systems. Attackers can exploit this weakness by setting up rogue LDAP servers that mimic legitimate services, potentially capturing authentication credentials and gaining unauthorized access to print services, user accounts, and sensitive document processing functions. The exposure of cleartext credentials undermines the entire security posture of the print management infrastructure, potentially allowing lateral movement within network environments and unauthorized access to protected resources. This vulnerability can be leveraged in conjunction with other attack vectors to establish persistent access and escalate privileges within the affected systems.
Organizations should immediately apply the vendor-provided patch to YSoft SAFEQ 6 Server version 6.0.82 or later, which addresses the credential re-entry requirement during LDAP configuration modifications. System administrators should conduct comprehensive audits of existing LDAP configurations to identify any potentially compromised credentials and implement network monitoring to detect unauthorized LDAP server activity. The mitigation strategy should include enforcing strict access controls on LDAP server configurations, implementing network segmentation to isolate print management services, and establishing robust credential management policies. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious LDAP traffic patterns and ensure that all administrative activities involving credential changes require explicit re-authentication. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper credential handling in authentication systems and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566, which covers credential harvesting through social engineering and system exploitation methods.