CVE-1999-1344 in Auto_FTP
Summary
by MITRE
Auto_FTP.pl script in Auto_FTP 0.2 stores usernames and passwords in plaintext in the auto_ftp.conf configuration file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/19/2026
The vulnerability described in CVE-1999-1344 represents a critical security flaw in the Auto_FTP 0.2 software package where the auto_ftp.pl script fails to implement proper credential protection mechanisms. This issue stems from the script's design decision to store authentication credentials in plaintext format within the auto_ftp.conf configuration file, creating a fundamental weakness in the system's security architecture. The vulnerability directly violates established security principles regarding credential handling and demonstrates poor security engineering practices that were common in early internet tools and scripts from the late 1990s era.
The technical flaw manifests as a clear violation of the principle of least privilege and secure credential storage practices. When the Auto_FTP script processes user requests, it reads the plaintext credentials from the configuration file without any form of encryption, hashing, or obfuscation. This approach creates an immediate and severe security risk because any user with file system access to the auto_ftp.conf file can directly read the stored usernames and passwords. The vulnerability operates at the file system level and represents a classic case of insecure data storage where sensitive information is not protected against unauthorized access. From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability maps directly to CWE-312 (CWE-312: Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information) and CWE-522 (CWE-522: Insufficiently Protected Credentials), both of which are fundamental categories in the Common Weakness Enumeration taxonomy that specifically address the improper handling of authentication credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple credential exposure, creating cascading security risks throughout the affected system. An attacker who gains access to the auto_ftp.conf file can immediately obtain valid credentials for multiple FTP accounts, potentially enabling unauthorized access to remote servers, data exfiltration, and privilege escalation attacks. This vulnerability particularly affects environments where multiple users or applications rely on automated FTP connections, as the exposure of credentials can compromise entire network infrastructure. The attack surface is broadened because the vulnerability exists at the application level and can be exploited by both local and remote attackers who can access the configuration file through various means such as directory traversal attacks, misconfigured file permissions, or through compromised user accounts. The implications align with ATT&CK technique T1566 (Phishing for Information) and T1552 (Unsecured Credentials) where attackers can leverage such plaintext credential storage to maintain persistence and escalate privileges within compromised systems.
The mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of proper credential protection measures. Organizations should immediately encrypt or obfuscate stored credentials using strong cryptographic methods such as symmetric encryption with secure key management or implement proper authentication protocols that do not require plaintext storage of credentials. The recommended approach involves redesigning the application to use secure credential storage mechanisms such as encrypted configuration files, secure key management systems, or integration with established authentication frameworks. System administrators should also implement strict file access controls and permissions on the auto_ftp.conf file to limit read access to authorized users only. Additionally, the software should be updated or replaced with versions that implement proper credential protection mechanisms, as this vulnerability represents a fundamental design flaw that cannot be adequately mitigated through configuration changes alone. The remediation process should include comprehensive security auditing of similar applications and scripts within the organization to identify and address other potential credential storage vulnerabilities.