Source: cve@mitre.org
The SATAN session key may be disclosed if the user points the web browser to other sites, possibly allowing root access.
This vulnerability allows an attacker to potentially gain root access by exploiting a flaw in the SATAN security auditing tool. By tricking a user into visiting malicious websites while SATAN is running, an attacker can steal the session key. This compromise could lead to complete system takeover.
Step 1: SATAN Session Initiation: The user launches the SATAN security auditing tool, establishing a session and generating a session key.
Step 2: Browser Usage: The user opens a web browser and navigates to various websites.
Step 3: Malicious Website (Attacker Controlled): The attacker crafts a malicious website or leverages a compromised legitimate website.
Step 4: Session Key Leakage: The attacker's website, through various techniques (e.g., browser history analysis, JavaScript, or other browser-based vulnerabilities), attempts to extract the SATAN session key from the browser's cache, cookies, or other stored information.
Step 5: Session Key Acquisition: The attacker successfully obtains the SATAN session key.
Step 6: Authentication: The attacker uses the stolen session key to authenticate to the SATAN service, potentially gaining access to sensitive information or control.
Step 7: Privilege Escalation (Potential): If SATAN is running with elevated privileges or the SATAN user has root access, the attacker can potentially escalate their privileges to root, gaining complete control of the system.
The vulnerability stems from SATAN's insecure handling of session keys and its reliance on the user's web browser. The root cause is the lack of proper isolation of the session key. When the user browses to other websites while SATAN is active, the browser's history or other mechanisms could be leveraged to leak the session key. This key, if compromised, allows an attacker to authenticate as the SATAN user and potentially gain root privileges if SATAN is running with elevated permissions or if the SATAN user has root access. The flaw is not a specific technical bug like a buffer overflow or race condition, but rather a design flaw in how SATAN manages and protects its session key in a multi-tasking environment where the user is browsing the web.
Due to the age of the vulnerability and the specific tool targeted, it is unlikely to be actively targeted by sophisticated APTs. However, the techniques used to extract the session key (e.g., browser history analysis, JavaScript-based attacks) are commonly used in various malware campaigns. This vulnerability is not listed on the CISA KEV.
Monitor network traffic for unusual activity related to SATAN, such as unexpected connections or data transfers.
Analyze web server logs for suspicious requests or activity that might indicate an attempt to extract the session key.
Inspect browser history and cache for evidence of malicious activity or attempts to access the SATAN session key.
Examine system logs for unauthorized access attempts or privilege escalation related to the SATAN user.
Monitor for the presence of SATAN on the network and its configuration.
Disable or remove SATAN from the system if it is no longer needed. This is the most effective mitigation.
If SATAN is required, ensure it is run with the least privileges necessary.
Implement strong authentication and authorization mechanisms to restrict access to SATAN.
Regularly review and update security configurations and policies.
Educate users about the risks of browsing untrusted websites while running sensitive applications.
Use a web browser with enhanced security features and regularly update it.
Implement a web application firewall (WAF) to detect and block malicious web traffic.