CVE-2000-0199 in SQL Server
Summary
by MITRE
When a new SQL Server is registered in Enterprise Manager for Microsoft SQL Server 7.0 and the "Always prompt for login name and password" option is not set, then the Enterprise Manager uses weak encryption to store the login ID and password.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/21/2026
This vulnerability exists in Microsoft SQL Server 7.0 Enterprise Manager where credentials are stored using weak encryption mechanisms when registering new SQL Server instances. The flaw occurs specifically when the "Always prompt for login name and password" option is disabled during the registration process, creating a persistent security weakness that can be exploited by unauthorized users. The vulnerability stems from the implementation of insufficient cryptographic protection for stored authentication credentials, which violates fundamental security principles for credential management.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the use of weak encryption algorithms or poorly configured encryption mechanisms within the Enterprise Manager interface. When users register SQL Server instances without enabling the secure login prompt option, the system stores the authentication credentials in an unencrypted or minimally encrypted format that can be easily recovered through reverse engineering or direct file access. This weakness directly maps to CWE-310, which addresses cryptographic weaknesses in software implementations, and specifically relates to insufficient encryption strength or improper key management practices. The vulnerability represents a classic credential storage flaw that allows attackers to obtain database access credentials without requiring additional authentication factors.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it provides attackers with persistent access to SQL Server instances without needing to perform additional authentication attacks. Once an attacker gains access to the Enterprise Manager configuration files or registry entries where these credentials are stored, they can extract the stored login information and use it to access the corresponding SQL Server instances. This creates a persistent backdoor that can remain undetected for extended periods, allowing attackers to maintain access to database resources and potentially escalate privileges within the database environment. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality and integrity of database systems, as unauthorized users can gain access to sensitive data and potentially perform malicious operations such as data exfiltration or modification.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including enabling the "Always prompt for login name and password" option during SQL Server registration to prevent credential storage, regularly auditing Enterprise Manager configuration settings, and implementing proper access controls on configuration files. System administrators should also consider implementing additional security measures such as network segmentation, database activity monitoring, and regular credential rotation practices. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and proper encryption implementation as outlined in industry standards and best practices for database security. Additionally, organizations should ensure that their security policies mandate the use of secure credential storage mechanisms and regularly review their database access management procedures to prevent similar weaknesses from occurring in other components of their infrastructure.