CVE-2001-0839 in Processing Plus
Summary
by MITRE
ibillpm.pl in iBill password management system generates weak passwords based on a client s MASTER_ACCOUNT, which allows remote attackers to modify account information in the .htpasswd file via brute force password guessing.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/03/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2001-0839 resides within the iBill password management system's ibillpm.pl script which demonstrates a critical weakness in cryptographic password generation. This flaw stems from the system's reliance on a predictable algorithm that derives passwords from the client's MASTER_ACCOUNT parameter, creating a deterministic password generation mechanism that significantly weakens the overall security posture. The vulnerability falls under the category of weak cryptographic algorithms and predictable random number generation as classified by CWE-330, where the system fails to implement proper entropy sources for password creation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through brute force password guessing attacks targeting the .htpasswd file which serves as the authentication mechanism for the iBill system. Attackers can systematically guess passwords by leveraging the predictable generation pattern based on the MASTER_ACCOUNT, allowing unauthorized modification of account information within the .htpasswd file. This represents a classic example of credential stuffing and brute force attacks that align with techniques documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the credential access and defense evasion domains. The weakness specifically manifests in the lack of proper password entropy and the deterministic nature of the password generation process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass complete compromise of the iBill system's authentication infrastructure. When attackers successfully guess or derive valid passwords, they gain the ability to modify user accounts, potentially leading to privilege escalation, data manipulation, and unauthorized system access. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the password management system, as the .htpasswd file contains critical authentication credentials that control access to system resources. This weakness creates a persistent security risk that can be exploited repeatedly without requiring additional reconnaissance or advanced exploitation techniques.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both the immediate password generation weakness and the broader authentication security posture. Organizations should implement strong cryptographic random number generators for password creation, ensure proper entropy in generated passwords, and adopt multi-factor authentication mechanisms. The system should be updated to use cryptographically secure password generation algorithms that do not rely on predictable inputs such as MASTER_ACCOUNT values. Additionally, implementing account lockout mechanisms, rate limiting for authentication attempts, and regular security audits of password generation processes would significantly reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following security best practices for password management as outlined in industry standards and frameworks that emphasize the need for proper entropy and resistance to brute force attacks.