CVE-2000-0954 in Shambala Server
Summary
by MITRE
Shambala Server 4.5 stores passwords in plaintext, which could allow local users to obtain the passwords and compromise the server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/06/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0954 affects Shambala Server version 4.5, representing a critical security flaw in password storage mechanisms that directly impacts system integrity and confidentiality. This issue stems from the server's improper handling of authentication credentials, where passwords are stored in plaintext format rather than being adequately hashed or encrypted. The vulnerability exists within the server's configuration and implementation of user authentication processes, creating an exploitable condition that undermines the fundamental security posture of the system.
The technical flaw manifests in the server's password management system where authentication credentials are persisted in an easily readable format on the local filesystem. This plaintext storage approach violates established security principles and best practices for credential handling, as it eliminates any form of cryptographic protection for sensitive authentication data. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-259 as "Use of Hard-coded Password" and also relates to CWE-312 as "Sensitive Data Exposure," demonstrating multiple security weaknesses in the credential storage implementation. Attackers with local access to the system can simply examine the password files or configuration data to extract authentication credentials directly, bypassing any authentication mechanisms that might otherwise protect the system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it enables attackers to gain unauthorized access to the server and potentially escalate privileges within the system. Local users who can access the server files can immediately obtain passwords for administrative accounts, user accounts, and service accounts that may have elevated privileges. This access could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within network environments where the server operates. The vulnerability particularly affects systems where local administrative access is possible, as it removes any barrier to credential access that would normally be present in properly secured systems. The attack surface is significantly expanded because the vulnerability does not require network access or complex exploitation techniques, making it particularly dangerous for environments where physical or local access controls are insufficient.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2000-0954 should focus on immediate remediation through proper password storage implementation. The most effective solution involves implementing cryptographic hashing algorithms such as bcrypt, scrypt, or PBKDF2 for password storage, ensuring that passwords are never stored in plaintext format. System administrators should also implement proper access controls and privilege separation to minimize the impact of local access to password files. The remediation process should include reviewing all password storage mechanisms within the system and ensuring compliance with security standards such as those outlined in the NIST Special Publication 800-63B for password management. Additionally, implementing regular security audits and penetration testing can help identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the system architecture. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following the principle of least privilege and implementing proper file access controls to prevent unauthorized local access to sensitive system files. Organizations should consider implementing centralized authentication systems and multi-factor authentication mechanisms to reduce the overall risk associated with credential exposure.