CVE-2021-45097 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

CVE-2021-45097 relates to a security issue in KNIME Server versions before 4.12.6 and 4.13.x before 4.13.4 when installed in unattended mode. The vulnerability allows local users to access the administrator's password due to inadequate file access controls.

Understanding CVE-2021-45097

What is CVE-2021-45097?

KNIME Server before specified versions improperly stores the administrator's password in a file without the necessary file access controls, enabling unauthorized local users to view its contents.

The Impact of CVE-2021-45097

The vulnerability's CVSS base score is 2.9, indicating a low severity issue with a localized attack vector and high attack complexity. While the integrity and availability impacts are assessed as none, there is a low confidentiality impact.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-45097

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in KNIME Server versions allows all local users to read the admin password due to inadequate file access controls.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: n/a
Product: n/a
Vulnerable Versions: KNIME Server before 4.12.6 and 4.13.x before 4.13.4

Exploitation Mechanism

The issue occurs when KNIME Server is set up in unattended mode, which inappropriately exposes the administrator's password file to all local users.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to KNIME Server version 4.12.6 or 4.13.4 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid storing sensitive information in plain text files without proper access controls.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict file access controls to limit sensitive data exposure.
Regularly monitor and audit file permissions and access to prevent unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by KNIME to address vulnerabilities promptly.