CVE-1999-1430 in Davinci
Summary
by MITRE
PIM software for Royal daVinci does not properly password-protext access to data stored in the .mdb (Microsoft Access) file, which allows local users to read the data without a password by directly accessing the files with a different application, such as Access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/18/2026
The vulnerability described in CVE-1999-1430 represents a critical weakness in the PIM software developed by Royal daVinci, specifically affecting how it handles password protection for Microsoft Access database files. This issue stems from inadequate implementation of access controls within the application's data management framework, creating a fundamental security flaw that undermines the intended confidentiality protections for sensitive information stored in .mdb files. The vulnerability exists at the application level where proper authentication mechanisms fail to enforce access restrictions, allowing unauthorized individuals to bypass the software's built-in security measures.
The technical flaw manifests through the software's failure to properly implement database password protection mechanisms. When users create or modify data within the PIM software, the application should enforce password requirements to prevent unauthorized access to the underlying .mdb database files. However, the vulnerability allows local users to directly access these database files using alternative applications such as Microsoft Access, effectively circumventing the application's own authentication and authorization controls. This occurs because the PIM software does not properly enforce the password protection that should be inherent to the .mdb file format or does not implement proper file access controls that would prevent unauthorized direct access to the database structure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure, as it fundamentally compromises the security model of the PIM system. Local users who gain access to the system can directly read sensitive personal information stored in the database without requiring proper authentication credentials, potentially exposing confidential data including personal identifiers, contact information, and other private details that users expect to be protected. This vulnerability affects the confidentiality aspect of the CIA triad and represents a clear violation of access control principles where the system fails to properly enforce the principle of least privilege. The impact is particularly severe in environments where the PIM software is used to store sensitive personal information, as the vulnerability allows for complete data exfiltration without requiring advanced exploitation techniques.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-522, which addresses insufficiently protected credentials, and CWE-284, which covers improper access control mechanisms. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this issue maps to techniques involving privilege escalation and credential access, as attackers can gain access to protected data without proper authentication. The vulnerability also demonstrates poor application design principles related to secure data handling and proper implementation of access control measures. Organizations using this software face significant risks including potential regulatory violations, data breach consequences, and loss of user trust. The remediation approach should involve implementing proper database encryption, enforcing access controls at the file system level, and ensuring that database password protection mechanisms are properly enforced within the application rather than relying solely on application-level controls.
The vulnerability represents a classic example of inadequate security controls in legacy applications, where the focus on user experience and ease of access has compromised fundamental security requirements. Modern security practices would require the implementation of proper access control lists, file system permissions, and database encryption to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data. The issue also highlights the importance of proper security testing and validation of authentication mechanisms, particularly in applications handling personal information. Organizations should implement comprehensive security measures including regular vulnerability assessments, proper access control implementations, and adherence to established security standards to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in current and future applications.