CVE-2000-0957 in pam_mysql
Summary
by MITRE
The pluggable authentication module for mysql (pam_mysql) before 0.4.7 does not properly cleanse user input when constructing SQL statements, which allows attackers to obtain plaintext passwords or hashes.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/28/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0957 affects the pluggable authentication module for mysql known as pam_mysql versions prior to 0.4.7. This represents a critical security flaw that undermines the authentication integrity of mysql database systems relying on this module. The issue stems from improper input validation and sanitization practices within the module's SQL statement construction process, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system's authentication mechanisms.
The technical flaw manifests as a classic sql injection vulnerability where user input is directly incorporated into sql queries without adequate sanitization or parameterization. When pam_mysql processes authentication requests, it constructs sql statements using unfiltered user credentials, allowing attackers to inject malicious sql code through the authentication interface. This vulnerability specifically targets the input handling within the mysql authentication module rather than the database itself, making it particularly insidious as it operates at the authentication layer where credentials are processed.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as attackers can obtain plaintext passwords or cryptographic hashes from the mysql database. This provides adversaries with immediate access to database authentication credentials that can be used for unauthorized database access, data exfiltration, or further network penetration. The vulnerability affects systems where mysql authentication relies on external authentication modules, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where database security is paramount. Organizations using vulnerable versions of pam_mysql face significant risk of unauthorized access to sensitive data stored within mysql databases.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which categorizes sql injection flaws as a critical weakness in software security. From an attack perspective, this issue maps to ATT&CK technique T1110.001 which covers credential access through brute force or password guessing, and T1078 which addresses valid accounts usage for persistence and access. The flaw represents a critical gap in input validation practices that violates fundamental security principles of least privilege and input sanitization. Organizations should immediately upgrade to pam_mysql version 0.4.7 or later to address this vulnerability. Additionally, implementing proper input validation, parameterized queries, and regular security audits of authentication modules can help prevent similar issues. Network segmentation and monitoring of authentication attempts should also be implemented to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input handling in authentication modules and serves as a reminder of the critical security implications when authentication mechanisms are not properly secured against injection attacks.