CVE-2018-1072 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

CVE-2018-1072 pertains to a vulnerability in ovirt-engine-setup version oVirt 4.2.2 that exposes sensitive information through log files, potentially leading to the inadvertent disclosure of database passwords.

Understanding CVE-2018-1072

This CVE entry highlights a security issue in ovirt-engine-setup that could compromise the confidentiality of database credentials due to plaintext storage in log files.

What is CVE-2018-1072?

The vulnerability in ovirt-engine-setup, before version oVirt 4.2.2, allows database usernames and passwords to be stored in clear text in log files when engine-backup is executed with specific options.
Sharing the provisioning log files poses a risk of unintentionally exposing sensitive database passwords.

The Impact of CVE-2018-1072

CVSS Score: 5 (Medium Severity)
Confidentiality Impact: High
Attack Vector: Local
User Interaction: Required
Privileges Required: Low
This vulnerability does not directly impact system availability or integrity but poses a significant risk to data confidentiality.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-1072

This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in ovirt-engine-setup allows plaintext storage of database credentials in log files, specifically when using certain engine-backup options.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: ovirt-engine-setup
Affected Version: oVirt 4.2.2

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Scope: Unchanged
The vulnerability requires local access and user interaction to exploit, with low privileges needed.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-1072 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade ovirt-engine-setup to version oVirt 4.2.2 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid sharing provisioning log files containing sensitive information.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure logging practices to prevent the exposure of sensitive data in log files.
Regularly review and monitor log files for any unauthorized access or disclosure.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches for ovirt-engine-setup to address vulnerabilities promptly.