CVE-2002-1676 in NetInventory
Summary
by MITRE
BindView NetInventory 1.0, when used with NetRC 1.0, allows local users to read sensitive information (passwords) by deleting the HOSTCFG._NI file and forcing an audit, which rewrites the HOSTCFG._NI to HOSTCFG.INI and stores the passwords in cleartext until the audit is complete.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/09/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-1676 affects BindView NetInventory 1.0 in conjunction with NetRC 1.0, presenting a critical security flaw that compromises sensitive authentication data through improper file handling mechanisms. This vulnerability exploits the interaction between two network inventory management components to create an information disclosure scenario that persists throughout the audit cycle.
The technical flaw manifests through a specific file manipulation sequence that leverages the audit process within the NetInventory system. When local users delete the HOSTCFG._NI file and subsequently trigger an audit operation, the system automatically rewrites this file to HOSTCFG.INI format. This automatic rewrite process creates a window of vulnerability where passwords are stored in cleartext format within the newly created configuration file, exposing authentication credentials to unauthorized access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with persistent access to authentication credentials that could be used for lateral movement within network environments. The cleartext storage of passwords until the audit process completes creates a prolonged exposure window where sensitive information remains accessible to any local user with system access. This vulnerability particularly affects environments where NetInventory and NetRC are deployed for network auditing and configuration management, as the attack vector requires only local system access to exploit.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-312 (Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information) and represents a classic case of improper credential handling within system configuration files. The attack pattern demonstrates characteristics consistent with privilege escalation techniques where local users can leverage system processes to gain access to sensitive data. The vulnerability also correlates with ATT&CK technique T1003 (OS Credential Dumping) through the exploitation of system configuration files containing authentication information.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of affected systems and implementation of proper file access controls to prevent unauthorized deletion of critical configuration files. System administrators should implement monitoring for file deletion events in sensitive directories and establish regular audits to detect unauthorized configuration changes. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing encrypted storage mechanisms for configuration files containing authentication data and ensure that audit processes do not create temporary cleartext storage of sensitive information. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure configuration management practices and proper file handling procedures in preventing information disclosure through system automation processes.