CVE-2001-1110 in EFTP
Summary
by MITRE
EFTP 2.0.7.337 allows remote attackers to obtain NETBIOS credentials by requesting information on a file that is in a network share, which causes the server to send the credentials to the host that owns the share, and allows the attacker to sniff the connection.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/18/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2001-1110 affects EFTP 2.0.7.337, a file transfer protocol implementation that operates within network environments utilizing NETBIOS naming conventions. This flaw represents a significant security weakness that enables remote attackers to extract sensitive authentication credentials through carefully crafted file access requests. The vulnerability specifically exploits the way the EFTP server handles network share requests, creating an unintended information disclosure channel that compromises the security posture of connected systems.
The technical mechanism behind this vulnerability involves the EFTP server's improper handling of file requests within network shares. When an attacker requests information about a file located in a network share, the server inadvertently transmits NETBIOS credentials to the host that owns the share. This occurs because the protocol implementation fails to properly sanitize or control the credential transmission process during file access operations. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper credential management within the server's response handling mechanisms, creating a direct pathway for credential exposure.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to network security infrastructure as it allows attackers to perform passive credential harvesting without requiring active exploitation or system compromise. The attack vector relies on network sniffing capabilities, making it particularly dangerous in environments where network traffic is not properly encrypted or secured. The vulnerability essentially transforms the legitimate file sharing functionality into a credential exfiltration mechanism, enabling attackers to obtain authentication tokens that can be used for unauthorized access to network resources. This aligns with the ATT&CK framework's credential access tactics, specifically targeting the collection of credentials through network sniffing and information gathering techniques.
The security implications extend beyond simple credential theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete network compromise and lateral movement within the affected environment. Attackers can leverage the obtained NETBIOS credentials to access shared resources, potentially escalating privileges and gaining access to sensitive data repositories. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations that rely heavily on NETBIOS-based authentication systems and file sharing protocols, where the attack can be executed without detection through standard security monitoring tools. The weakness demonstrates poor security design practices in protocol implementation and highlights the importance of proper credential handling and network traffic sanitization.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing network segmentation to isolate sensitive shares and credential storage systems from general network access. Organizations should deploy network monitoring solutions capable of detecting anomalous credential transmission patterns and implement proper encryption for all network communications. The recommended approach includes upgrading to patched versions of EFTP software, implementing network access controls, and establishing robust credential management policies that minimize the exposure of authentication information. Additionally, security teams should conduct regular network traffic analysis to identify potential credential sniffing activities and ensure that all network shares are properly configured with appropriate access controls. This vulnerability exemplifies the critical importance of secure protocol implementation and proper authentication handling in preventing information disclosure attacks that can compromise entire network infrastructures.