CVE-2022-45154 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information vulnerability was discovered in supportconfig of SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 12 and SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15, allowing attackers with access to support logs to uncover stored credentials. This vulnerability affects multiple versions of the supportutils package in the specified SUSE Linux distributions.

Understanding CVE-2022-45154

This section provides an overview of the CVE-2022-45154 vulnerability, including its impact and affected systems.

What is CVE-2022-45154?

CVE-2022-45154 refers to a Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information flaw in supportconfig of SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 12, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15, and SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15 SP3. Attackers who can access support logs can exploit this vulnerability to obtain sensitive credentials stored within.

The Impact of CVE-2022-45154

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as MEDIUM based on the CVSSv3.1 scoring system. It has a base score of 4.4, reflecting the potential risk posed by unauthorized access to sensitive information stored in plaintext.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-45154

This section delves into the technical aspects of CVE-2022-45154, including vulnerability description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from supportconfig's failure to adequately secure sensitive credentials, leading to a scenario where attackers can easily retrieve this information from support logs.

Affected Systems and Versions

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 12, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15, and SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15 SP3 are impacted by this vulnerability. Specifically, supportutils versions prior to certain specified versions are vulnerable to Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers gaining unauthorized access to support logs within the affected systems can exploit this vulnerability to extract sensitive credential information stored in plaintext.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines the steps to mitigate and prevent exploitation of CVE-2022-45154 by enhancing security measures and applying necessary updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

It is recommended to restrict access to support logs and sensitive files, ensuring that only authorized personnel can view and modify these resources. Additionally, consider updating to secure versions of supportutils in the affected SUSE Linux Enterprise Server distributions.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing encryption mechanisms for sensitive data at rest and in transit can bolster security posture and protect against unauthorized access to valuable information.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security patches and updates provided by SUSE for the supportutils package in SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 12, SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15, and SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15 SP3 to address CVE-2022-45154 and other vulnerabilities.