ServiceNow, a widely used cloud-based platform for IT service management and business operations, recently identified a critical misconfiguration in its application. This vulnerability, present since 2015, had the potential to grant unintended access to sensitive corporate data. This article examines the nature of the misconfiguration, its implications, and the steps organizations should take to address it.
Background:
ServiceNow is a cloud-based platform integral to various business operations, providing automation for IT service management, HR, security operations, and more. The misconfiguration pertained to the default setting in the Simple List interface widget, enabling remote access to data stored in tables, including sensitive information like IT tickets, classified knowledge bases, and employee details.
The Misconfiguration:
The issue didn't stem from a vulnerability in ServiceNow's code but from a configuration within the platform itself. The misconfiguration revolved around the Simple List widget, a core component that organizes data into tables for easy readability. These tables, by default, had a setting of Public Access, potentially exposing critical information.
ServiceNow's Response:
ServiceNow swiftly addressed the misconfiguration, rectifying it in multiple locations within the application. However, organizations are advised to conduct a thorough review of their Access Control Lists (ACLs) and public widgets, ensuring alignment with their specific use cases. Additionally, stricter access control measures, such as IP Address Access Control and Adaptive Authentication, are recommended.
Remediation Steps:
Review Access Control Lists (ACLs) to identify empty or "Public" entries.
Evaluate public widgets and adjust the "Public" flag where necessary.
Consider implementing stricter access controls provided by ServiceNow, like IP Address Access Control or Adaptive Authentication.
Install the ServiceNow Explicit Roles Plugin to prevent external users from accessing internal data.
Automating Data Leakage Prevention:
Organizations utilizing SaaS Security Posture Management (SSPM) solutions, such as Adaptive Shield, gain visibility into ServiceNow's configurations and can promptly rectify any issues. SSPMs offer real-time alerts for high-risk configurations, enabling security teams to adjust settings promptly and prevent potential data leakage.
Conclusion:
While ServiceNow has addressed the critical misconfiguration, it is crucial for organizations to proactively review their configurations and implement recommended security measures. This incident underscores the significance of robust configuration management in safeguarding sensitive corporate data. Employing SSPMs can further enhance an organization's security posture in cloud-based platforms like ServiceNow.
