H3-2025-0029
Prometheus Flags API Configuration Leak
| Category | SECURITY_MISCONFIGURATION |
| Base Score | 3.0 |
Description
The Prometheus Flags API endpoint is intended to display a series of configuration flags useful for administrators and debugging purposes. However, in certain deployments this endpoint inadvertently exposes the full file path to critical configuration files. In many cases, if the configuration file is stored in a user’s home directory, this leak not only reveals the configuration details but also discloses usernames and potentially other sensitive information about the environment. This information disclosure can be exploited by attackers to gather reconnaissance data about the system architecture, internal file system layout, and the privileges associated with these configuration files. Attackers can use this information to map out the internal network, identify weak points based on known configuration patterns, and even tailor social engineering or further technical attacks such as privilege escalation. The vulnerability arises from insufficient access control and failure to sanitize sensitive output data from a debug endpoint. Even though the intended audience may be trusted administrators, the exposure over an unprotected endpoint allows unauthorized parties to access this critical information if they happen to detect the endpoint during scanning. As a result, attackers can combine this knowledge with other vulnerabilities found in the system to mount more targeted and effective attacks. It is therefore imperative to treat such endpoints with strict access restrictions and ensure that only necessary, sanitized output is disclosed in order to minimize any inadvertent information leaks.
Impact
Exploitation of this vulnerability may allow an attacker to access sensitive configuration details, revealing internal directory structures and usernames. This can lead to further exploitation, including targeted attacks, lateral movement within the network, and potential privilege escalation. The information leak could also serve as a stepping stone for additional, more severe attacks by providing critical insights into the system’s layout and configuration.