CVE-2024-7012 is an authentication bypass vulnerability identified in Foreman when deployed with External Authentication, specifically due to the puppet-foreman configuration. The vulnerability arises from Apache's mod_proxy module, which does not properly unset HTTP headers containing underscores because of restrictions on such headers. Attackers can exploit this behavior by sending malformed HTTP headers that bypass the intended authentication mechanisms, effectively allowing unauthorized users to gain administrative access to the Foreman interface. This issue affects all active Red Hat Satellite deployments versions 6.13, 6.14, and 6.15, which rely on Foreman for lifecycle management of infrastructure. The vulnerability has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 9.8, reflecting its critical nature with network attack vector, no required privileges or user interaction, and full impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the ease of exploitation and the critical access gained make this a severe threat. The flaw is rooted in the interaction between Apache mod_proxy's header handling and Foreman's external authentication setup, highlighting the importance of secure proxy configurations in complex authentication chains.

The impact of CVE-2024-7012 on European organizations is substantial, particularly for those using Red Hat Satellite for managing their IT infrastructure. Unauthorized administrative access could lead to full compromise of the Satellite server, enabling attackers to manipulate configuration management, deploy malicious code, or disrupt critical services. This could result in widespread operational outages, data breaches, and loss of control over managed systems. Given the critical role of Satellite in patch management and provisioning, exploitation could cascade into broader network compromise. Sectors such as finance, telecommunications, government, and critical infrastructure operators in Europe are especially vulnerable due to their reliance on Red Hat Satellite for secure and compliant infrastructure management. The lack of required authentication or user interaction lowers the barrier for attackers, increasing the likelihood of exploitation. The vulnerability also poses risks to supply chain security if attackers leverage Satellite to distribute malicious updates or configurations.

To mitigate CVE-2024-7012, organizations should immediately audit and harden their Apache mod_proxy configurations to ensure headers with underscores are properly handled or blocked. Applying any available patches or updates from Red Hat for Satellite versions 6.13, 6.14, and 6.15 is critical once released. In the interim, restricting access to the Satellite management interface to trusted networks and implementing network-level controls such as firewalls or VPNs can reduce exposure. Monitoring logs for unusual or malformed HTTP headers may help detect attempted exploitation. Organizations should also review their external authentication configurations in Foreman and consider disabling or isolating this feature if not essential. Employing multi-factor authentication and strict role-based access controls can limit the impact of any unauthorized access. Regular security assessments and penetration testing focused on proxy and authentication mechanisms are recommended to identify similar weaknesses.