CVE-2000-1199 in PostgreSQL
Summary
by MITRE
PostgreSQL stores usernames and passwords in plaintext in (1) pg_shadow and (2) pg_pwd, which allows attackers with sufficient privileges to gain access to databases.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/07/2024
This vulnerability resides in the PostgreSQL database management system where sensitive authentication credentials are stored in plaintext format within specific system catalogs. The issue affects the pg_shadow and pg_pwd tables which contain user authentication information including usernames and passwords. When these tables are accessible to unauthorized users or when attackers possess sufficient privileges to query them, they can directly extract plaintext credentials without requiring additional cracking or decryption processes. This represents a fundamental security flaw in how PostgreSQL handles credential storage, as the system does not implement proper encryption or hashing mechanisms for password data at rest. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows for immediate credential compromise once an attacker gains access to these system tables, eliminating the need for time-consuming password cracking operations. According to CWE classification, this corresponds to CWE-312: Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information, which specifically addresses the insecure storage of sensitive data in plaintext format. The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft as it can enable attackers to establish persistent access to database systems, potentially leading to data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and unauthorized modifications to database content. The flaw also violates security best practices outlined in various industry standards including the NIST Special Publication 800-53 which emphasizes the importance of protecting sensitive information through appropriate cryptographic measures. Organizations using PostgreSQL versions affected by this vulnerability face significant risk exposure, particularly in environments where database administrators have broad access controls or where privilege escalation attacks are possible.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires attackers to possess sufficient privileges to query the system catalogs where the credentials are stored. This typically involves having either superuser privileges or specific database permissions that allow access to pg_shadow and pg_pwd tables. Once accessed, the plaintext nature of the stored credentials means that attackers can immediately use these credentials to authenticate to the database system without additional computational overhead. The vulnerability exists across multiple versions of PostgreSQL and represents a design flaw in the system's credential management architecture. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1078 credential access tactic, specifically targeting legitimate credentials for unauthorized access. The lack of encryption or hashing mechanisms in the storage layer creates an environment where even authorized users with minimal privileges could potentially extract sensitive information if proper access controls are not enforced. This flaw demonstrates a critical failure in the principle of least privilege and proper data protection mechanisms, as database systems should never store sensitive information in plaintext format. The vulnerability also impacts database audit and compliance requirements, as organizations must ensure that all sensitive information, including authentication credentials, is properly protected according to regulatory standards such as PCI DSS and HIPAA.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper access controls and privilege management within the PostgreSQL environment. Database administrators must ensure that only authorized personnel have access to system catalogs containing credential information, and that proper role-based access controls are implemented to restrict access to pg_shadow and pg_pwd tables. The most effective long-term solution involves upgrading to PostgreSQL versions that implement proper password hashing and encryption mechanisms, as later versions address this specific weakness in credential storage. Organizations should also implement regular security audits to verify that no unauthorized access exists to system catalogs and that proper segregation of duties is maintained. Additional protective measures include implementing database activity monitoring systems that can detect unauthorized access attempts to sensitive system tables, deploying network segmentation to limit access to database systems, and ensuring that all database users operate under the principle of least privilege. The implementation of proper password policies and regular credential rotation procedures can also help reduce the impact of any potential credential compromise. Security teams should also consider implementing database firewall solutions and encryption at rest for database files to provide additional layers of protection beyond the basic access control mechanisms. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify and remediate any potential access paths that could lead to credential exposure, ensuring compliance with industry security standards and regulatory requirements.