CVE-2024-20491 in Nexus Dashboard Insights
Summary
by MITRE • 10/02/2024
A vulnerability in a logging function of Cisco Nexus Dashboard Insights could allow an attacker with access to a tech support file to view sensitive information.
This vulnerability exists because remote controller credentials are recorded in an internal log that is stored in the tech support file. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by accessing a tech support file that is generated from an affected system. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to view remote controller admin credentials in clear text. Note: Best practice is to store debug logs and tech support files safely and to share them only with trusted parties because they may contain sensitive information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-20491 represents a critical security flaw within Cisco Nexus Dashboard Insights that stems from improper handling of sensitive credentials within technical support documentation. This issue manifests through the logging function that inadvertently captures and stores remote controller administrative credentials in plain text format within tech support files generated by affected systems. The vulnerability architecture demonstrates a clear failure in information security principles where authentication tokens and administrative credentials are not properly sanitized or encrypted during the logging process, creating a persistent exposure point within system diagnostic outputs.
The technical implementation of this flaw occurs within the internal logging mechanisms of the Nexus Dashboard Insights platform where system administrators and technical support personnel generate comprehensive diagnostic reports containing detailed operational data. These tech support files serve as repositories of system information including configuration details, operational metrics, and credential information that is essential for troubleshooting but becomes dangerously accessible when proper security controls are not implemented. The vulnerability specifically affects the logging subsystem that records remote controller credentials, which are stored in clear text format without any form of encryption or obfuscation, making them immediately readable to any individual with access to the generated support files.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates a significant risk exposure for organizations utilizing Cisco Nexus Dashboard Insights as it enables attackers to gain unauthorized access to administrative credentials through legitimate support file access channels. The attack vector requires an initial compromise to obtain access to a tech support file, which typically occurs through social engineering, compromised system access, or insider threats. Once obtained, the attacker can extract administrative credentials for remote controllers, potentially enabling full administrative control over the affected network infrastructure. This represents a severe privilege escalation vulnerability that directly violates the principle of least privilege and could lead to complete system compromise and data exfiltration.
The security implications of CVE-2024-20491 align with CWE-312 (Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information) and CWE-522 (Insufficiently Protected Credentials), both of which address the improper handling of authentication data in system logs and diagnostic files. The vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1566 (Phishing) and T1078 (Valid Accounts) as attackers may use compromised tech support files to obtain valid administrative credentials for further system infiltration. Organizations should implement mandatory secure handling protocols for all diagnostic and support files, including encryption requirements, access controls, and regular security audits to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive credential information.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate implementation of secure logging practices that prevent credential storage in diagnostic files, mandatory encryption of all tech support file generation processes, and strict access controls for support file distribution. System administrators must adopt the principle of least privilege when generating support files and ensure that all diagnostic outputs are properly sanitized before sharing with third parties. Additionally, organizations should implement automated monitoring systems to detect and alert on suspicious access patterns to diagnostic files, establish secure file transfer protocols, and maintain regular security training for technical staff on handling sensitive information. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of secure configuration management and proper information lifecycle handling within enterprise networking infrastructure.