Discover Grafana Bugs: Penetration Testing for Security Flaws

Understanding Grafana

Grafana is an open-source analytics and monitoring solution that has gained significant popularity among developers and IT professionals. As organizations increasingly rely on data-driven decisions, the need for effective visualization tools has become paramount. Grafana facilitates the creation of interactive and dynamic dashboards that help users monitor various metrics in real-time. One of its strongest features is the ability to integrate with numerous data sources, such as Prometheus, InfluxDB, and Elasticsearch, providing a flexible platform for diverse datasets.

The intuitive interface of Grafana allows users to create complex visualizations without needing an extensive programming background. With drag-and-drop functionalities, it simplifies the process of building dashboards, making it accessible for users of all skill levels. Grafana's extensive library of plugins further enhances its capabilities, allowing users to customize their dashboards to meet specific needs. This adaptability means that organizations can tailor Grafana to visualize anything from server metrics to business KPIs, thus ensuring relevant data is always at the forefront of decision-making processes.

Grafana is an open-source platform for monitoring and observability, widely used for visualizing and analyzing data from various sources. It allows users to create interactive, customizable dashboards to display metrics, logs, and traces in real-time. Grafana supports a variety of data sources, such as Prometheus, InfluxDB, Elasticsearch, MySQL, and many others, making it highly versatile for IT infrastructure monitoring, application performance tracking, and business analytics.

Its key features include:

Dashboards: Users can build dynamic and visually appealing dashboards with graphs, charts, and alerts.

Data Source Integration: It connects to numerous databases and services out of the box.

Alerting: Grafana can notify users via email, Slack, PagerDuty, etc., when predefined thresholds are breached.

Extensibility: It supports plugins for additional functionality and custom visualizations.

Querying: Users can write queries to extract and manipulate data for display.

Originally created in 2014 by Torkel Ödegaard, Grafana is now maintained by Grafana Labs and has a large community of contributors. It’s widely adopted in DevOps, system administration, and data analysis for its flexibility and ease of use.

Step-by-Step Guide to Conducting a Penetration Test on Grafana

Conducting a penetration test on Grafana requires a systematic approach to identify vulnerabilities that could potentially be exploited by attackers. To begin, it's essential to gather intelligence on Grafana instances that are publicly accessible. One effective method is Shodan Dorking, which involves using specific search queries to locate devices or services exposed on the internet. By executing a search query such as `http.title:"Grafana"` in Shodan, you can quickly find instances of Grafana running on various servers. This initial reconnaissance phase lays the groundwork for deeper analysis.

http.title:"Grafana"

Once you have identified potential Grafana instances, the next step is to analyze them for common vulnerabilities. 

Common Security Vulnerabilities Found in Grafana

Sensitive information via Grafana Metrics file

Metrics tell you how much of something exists, such as how much memory a computer system has available or how many centimeters long a desktop is. In the case of Grafana, metrics are most useful when they are recorded repeatedly over time.Sensitive information can inadvertently be exposed through Grafana metrics files, creating potential privacy and security concerns for organizations. Grafana, an open-source analytics platform, is widely used for visualizing and monitoring system operations through metrics. While these metrics provide invaluable insights, such as system performance, application behaviors, and resource utilization, they can also contain sensitive data if not properly managed. For example, metrics may include details about user activity, IP addresses, or configuration settings, which can be exploited if accessed by unauthorized individuals.

The utility of Grafana becomes especially pronounced when these metrics are logged repeatedly over time, allowing for trend analysis and predictive monitoring. However, this logging capability raises critical questions regarding data retention and sensitivity. When sensitive information is collected without sufficient anonymization or access controls, it can lead to serious breaches. Companies must be vigilant about what data is captured within Grafana dashboards and ensure that metrics files do not inadvertently reveal confidential information.

after found Grafana instance, just add /metrics path to target url 

like : https://grafana.target.com/metrics 

When attempting to access Grafana's metrics, attackers may find it alarmingly simple to do so. Upon discovering a Grafana instance, one only needs to append the /metrics path to the target URL—for example, simply navigating to https://grafana.target.com/metrics could potentially expose critical data. This ease of access highlights the importance of implementing stringent security measures around Grafana instances, including proper authentication, authorization, and the use of transport layers that secure data in transit.

To mitigate risks, organizations should establish a comprehensive monitoring strategy that includes regular audits of Grafana metrics files. This process should involve sanitizing the metrics to prevent the logging of sensitive data and ensuring that any information presented through the Grafana interface adheres to best practices in data protection. Utilizing feature sets, such as permissions to restrict access based on user roles, can also help prevent unauthorized views of sensitive metrics data.

In conclusion, while Grafana can greatly enhance observability within systems, it presents unique challenges in terms of data security. By being proactive and implementing robust security protocols, organizations can enjoy the benefits of Grafana without compromising their sensitive information. A thorough understanding of how to protect metrics data is essential for any team leveraging this powerful visualization platform effectively.

However, with the rich analytics and insights offered by Grafana comes the responsibility of handling sensitive information with care. The ability to track CPU performance can expose vulnerabilities if not properly secured, and internal paths may inadvertently reveal system architecture details that could be exploited. Therefore, organizations must implement stringent access controls and data protection protocols to ensure that dashboards do not display sensitive information to unauthorized personnel. Maintaining a balance between accessibility and security is essential to prevent potential breaches.

Moreover, the aggregation of user data across various platforms can lead to comprehensive insights into organizational performance. Monitoring the number of users interacting with different systems enables businesses to make informed decisions about resource allocation and application scaling. Yet, this wealth of information must be managed responsibly. Organizations must adhere to data protection regulations and ethical guidelines, ensuring that user privacy is respected while still leveraging the robust analytical capabilities that Grafana provides.

Unauthorized Access to Grafana Instance via Defualt Credentials

 one of the quickest checks is testing for default credentials — a common oversight that can lead to serious vulnerabilities. Grafana, like many other platforms, often ships with preset login credentials that administrators may forget to update.

admin:admin
admin:prom-operator

There is detailed writeup :
https://infosecwriteups.com/unlocking-cash-easy-p1-bug-in-grafana-dashboard-with-default-credentials-fa36ddf271da

After testing default credentials, the next step is to look for publicly disclosed CVEs related to the specific Grafana version you’re targeting.Identifying the Grafana version is crucial, as vulnerabilities are often version-specific. You can typically find the version number displayed at the bottom of the login page. Once you have the version, cross-reference it with publicly available CVEs to identify potential attack vectors.

CVE-2020–13379

Unauthenticated Full-Read SSRF

CVE-2020-13379 is a critical vulnerability in Grafana,.It allows unauthorized users to access and exploit private data, leading to potential exposure of personal information and other sensitive assets. Given the increasing reliance on data visualization tools, understanding and mitigating this vulnerability is paramount for any user of Grafana.

There is detailed writeup :

https://rhynorater.github.io/CVE-2020-13379-Write-Up

 CVE-2020–11110

Grafana through 6.7.1 allows stored XSS due to insufficient input protection in the originalUrl field, which allows an attacker to inject JavaScript code that will be executed after clicking on Open Original Dashboard after visiting the snapshot.

Vulnerable Endpoint : 

https://target/api/snapshots

CVE-2021–43798

Grafana versions 8.0.0-beta1 through 8.3.0 (except for patched versions) iss vulnerable to directory traversal, allowing access to local files. The vulnerable URL path is: <grafana_host_url>/public/plugins//, where is the plugin ID for any installed plugin.

Vulnerable Endpoint : 

https://target/public/plugins/alertlist/../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../etc/passwd

For more informations:

https://github.com/jas502n/Grafana-CVE-2021-43798

CVE-2021–41174

In affected versions if an attacker is able to convince a victim to visit a URL referencing a vulnerable page, arbitrary JavaScript content may be executed within the context of the victim’s browser. The user visiting the malicious link must be unauthenticated and the link must be for a page that contains the login button in the menu bar. The url has to be crafted to exploit AngularJS rendering and contain the interpolation binding for AngularJS expressions. AngularJS uses double curly braces for interpolation binding: {{ }} ex: {{constructor.constructor(‘alert(1)’)()}}. When the user follows the link and the page renders, the login button will contain the original link with a query parameter to force a redirect to the login page.

Vulnerable Endpoint:

https://target/dashboard/snapshot/%7B%7Bconstructor.constructor(%27alert(document.domain)%27)()%7D%7D?orgId=1

For more information :

https://github.com/advisories/GHSA-3j9m-hcv9-rpj8

CVE-2021–39226

In affected versions unauthenticated and authenticated users are able to view the snapshot with the lowest database key by accessing the literal paths: /dashboard/snapshot/:key, or /api/snapshots/:key. If the snapshot “public_mode” configuration setting is set to true (vs default of false), unauthenticated users are able to delete the snapshot with the lowest database key by accessing the literal path: /api/snapshots-delete/:deleteKey. Regardless of the snapshot “public_mode” setting, authenticated users are able to delete the snapshot with the lowest database key by accessing the literal paths: /api/snapshots/:key, or /api/snapshots-delete/:deleteKey.

Vulnerable Endpoints:
https://target/api/snapshots/:key
https://target/api/snapshots-delete/:deleteKey
https://target/dashboard/snapshot/:key

For more informations:

https://github.com/grafana/grafana/security/advisories/GHSA-69j6-29vr-p3j9

 CVE-2022–32275

Grafana 8.4.3 allows reading files via (for example) a /dashboard/snapshot/%7B%7Bconstructor.constructor’/.. /.. /.. /.. /.. /.. /.. /.. /etc/passwd URI

Vulnerable Endpoint:

 https://target/dashboard/snapshot/%7B%7Bconstructor.constructor'/.. /.. /.. /.. /.. /.. /.. /.. /etc/passwd

for more information :

https://secalerts.co/vulnerability/CVE-2022-32275

CVE-2022–32276

Grafana 8.4.3 allows unauthenticated access via (for example) a /dashboard/snapshot/*?orgId=0 URI. NOTE: the vendor considers this a UI bug, not a vulnerability.

for more information:

https://github.com/BrotherOfJhonny/grafana/blob/main/README.md

 CVE-2022–39307

When using the forget password on the login page, a POST request is made to the /api/user/password/sent-reset-email URL. When the username or email does not exist, a JSON response contains a “user not found” message. This leaks information to unauthenticated users and introduces a security risk. This issue has been patched in 9.2.4 and backported to 8.5.15.

for more information:

https://github.com/grafana/grafana/security/advisories/GHSA-3p62-42x7-gxg5

Remote Code Execution via SQL Server 

Initial research yielded no known exploits for remote code execution (RCE) with admin privileges in Grafana. However, a network scan revealed additional open ports, including Microsoft SQL Server (MSSQL) on port 1433. Grafana’s ability to integrate MSSQL as a data source became the key to the exploit. By leveraging admin access, the tester crafted a malicious SQL query using the xp_cmdshell stored procedure, which is disabled by default but could be re-enabled with sufficient privileges. The query was injected via Grafana’s data source configuration, allowing arbitrary command execution on the underlying Windows system.

- Found MSSQL service on system

- Run the following commands: 

EXEC sp_configure ‘show advanced options’, ‘1’

RECONFIGURE

EXEC sp_configure ‘xp_cmdshell’, ‘1’ 

RECONFIGUR

and get RCE 

for more informations:

https://medium.com/@konqi/exploiting-grafana-to-achieve-remote-command-execution-5eb0f99cb107

I had the opportunity to participate in the HackerOne programs aimed at identifying vulnerabilities within various software, including Grafana. As a passionate bug hunter, I spent time meticulously navigating the platform, utilizing my skills to pinpoint areas of concern. Grafana, known for its robust data visualization capabilities, is widely used by developers and organizations alike, making it critical to ensure its security. After thorough testing and analysis, I was able to discover some bugs that I believed warranted attention.

Submitting my findings through the HackerOne platform was an enlightening experience. The process is designed to be straightforward while also ensuring that the reports are comprehensive enough for the Grafana team to act upon. Each submission required a detailed explanation of the vulnerability, including steps to reproduce it, potential impacts, and suggested mitigations. The thrill of outlining my discoveries, coupled with the anticipation of feedback from the Grafana security team, was exhilarating.

To my delight, my reports were accepted, which not only validated my efforts but also contributed to the ongoing mission of improving the software's security. Receiving acknowledgment from the Grafana team felt rewarding, as it underscored the importance of collaboration between ethical hackers and organizations. The recognition boosted my motivation, reinforcing my commitment to continue hunting for vulnerabilities in various systems.

Looking ahead, I am eager to keep engaging with HackerOne programs and further enhance my skills in cybersecurity. Each new challenge serves not only as an opportunity to learn more about the intricacies of software security but also to contribute positively to the tech community. I hope to inspire others to join in this crucial endeavor, fostering a safer digital landscape for everyone. Thank you for reading.