CVE-2017-4991 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability has been found in several versions of Cloud Foundry Foundation cf-release, UAA release 2.x, UAA release 3.6.x, UAA release 3.9.x, and other versions, as well as UAA bosh release (uaa-release) 13.x versions, UAA bosh release 24.x versions, UAA bosh release 30.x versions, and other versions. This vulnerability allows privileged users in one zone to reset the passwords of users in a different zone.

Understanding CVE-2017-4991

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Cloud Foundry UAA that allows privileged users to reset passwords of users in different zones.

What is CVE-2017-4991?

CVE-2017-4991 is a security vulnerability found in various versions of Cloud Foundry UAA, enabling privileged users to reset passwords across different zones.

The Impact of CVE-2017-4991

The vulnerability poses a risk as it allows unauthorized password resets by privileged users, potentially compromising user accounts and system security.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-4991

This section provides detailed technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The issue affects Cloud Foundry Foundation cf-release versions prior to v260, UAA release 2.x versions prior to v2.7.4.16, 3.6.x versions prior to v3.6.10, 3.9.x versions prior to v3.9.12, and other versions. It also impacts UAA bosh release versions.

Affected Systems and Versions

Cloud Foundry Foundation cf-release versions prior to v260
UAA release 2.x versions prior to v2.7.4.16
UAA release 3.6.x versions prior to v3.6.10
UAA release 3.9.x versions prior to v3.9.12
UAA bosh release 13.x versions prior to v13.14
UAA bosh release 24.x versions prior to v24.9
UAA bosh release 30.x versions prior to 30.2

Exploitation Mechanism

Privileged users in one zone can perform a password reset for users in a different zone, exploiting the vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-4991 is crucial to maintaining security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Cloud Foundry UAA to the patched versions to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor user password changes and access logs for any suspicious activity.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement least privilege access controls to limit user capabilities.
Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Cloud Foundry to address the vulnerability and enhance system security.