CVE-2019-0201 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Apache ZooKeeper versions 1.0.0 to 3.4.13 and 3.5.0-alpha to 3.5.4-beta have a vulnerability that exposes unsalted hash values used for user authentication.

Understanding CVE-2019-0201

Apache ZooKeeper is affected by an information disclosure vulnerability that allows unauthorized users to access sensitive hash values.

What is CVE-2019-0201?

Apache ZooKeeper versions 1.0.0 to 3.4.13 and 3.5.0-alpha to 3.5.4-beta have a security issue where the getACL() command does not properly verify permissions, leading to the exposure of unsalted hash values.

The Impact of CVE-2019-0201

The vulnerability allows unauthenticated or unprivileged users to retrieve sensitive hash values used for user authentication, potentially compromising security.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-0201

Apache ZooKeeper vulnerability details and affected systems.

Vulnerability Description

The getACL() command in ZooKeeper does not verify permissions, exposing hash values used for user authentication.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Apache ZooKeeper
Vendor: Apache Software Foundation
Versions: 1.0.0 to 3.4.13, 3.5.0-alpha to 3.5.4-beta

Exploitation Mechanism

Unauthorized users can exploit the vulnerability by making a getACL() request to retrieve sensitive hash values.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2019-0201.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade Apache ZooKeeper to a patched version (e.g., 3.4.14).
Monitor access to sensitive data and restrict permissions.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to prevent vulnerabilities.
Implement strong authentication mechanisms and access controls.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and apply patches promptly.