CVE-2002-2066 in BCWipe
Summary
by MITRE
BestCrypt BCWipe 1.0.7 and 2.0 through 2.35.1 does not clear Windows alternate data streams that are attached to files on NTFS file systems, which allows attackers to recover sensitive information that was supposed to be deleted.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/08/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-2066 affects BestCrypt BCWipe versions 1.0.7 and 2.0 through 2.35.1, representing a critical data sanitization flaw in file deletion processes on Windows NTFS file systems. This issue stems from the software's failure to properly clear alternate data streams that are inherently embedded within NTFS file structures, creating a persistent security risk that undermines the intended purpose of data destruction. The vulnerability specifically targets the Windows file system's advanced feature that allows multiple data streams to be associated with a single file, where the primary data stream contains the main file content while alternate data streams store additional metadata or hidden data.
The technical flaw manifests when BCWipe attempts to securely delete files by overwriting or removing them from the file system. While the primary file content may be properly destroyed, the alternate data streams containing sensitive information remain intact on the disk, accessible through specialized tools or even standard file system operations. This behavior directly violates fundamental security principles of secure data sanitization, as the complete file structure including all associated data streams must be cleared to ensure information recovery is impossible. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because alternate data streams can contain sensitive metadata, configuration data, or even encrypted content that was not intended for deletion but remains accessible to attackers who understand NTFS file system internals.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risks for organizations relying on BCWipe for secure data destruction, particularly in environments where sensitive information is stored in files with alternate data streams. Attackers can exploit this flaw to recover deleted files or extract sensitive information that was thought to be permanently removed from the system, potentially compromising data confidentiality and integrity. The vulnerability affects systems where files are created with additional data streams through various means including Microsoft Office documents, executable files, or any application that leverages NTFS alternate data streams for storing metadata or extended attributes. This creates a persistent threat vector where even properly deleted files can be reconstructed or their contents recovered, undermining the security controls implemented through the file sanitization process.
The security implications extend beyond simple information recovery to encompass potential compliance violations in regulated environments where data destruction must meet specific regulatory requirements. Organizations using BCWipe for secure data disposal may find their compliance posture weakened, as the software fails to meet minimum standards for secure file deletion on NTFS systems. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-225, which addresses weaknesses in data sanitization processes, and represents a specific implementation flaw in secure deletion methodologies. The attack surface is particularly relevant for environments where sensitive data is stored in files with alternate data streams, and the vulnerability can be exploited using standard file recovery tools or through direct NTFS file system manipulation techniques. Mitigation strategies should include immediate software updates or replacement with secure deletion tools that properly handle all NTFS file streams, along with comprehensive system auditing to identify and recover any sensitive information that may have been left accessible through this vulnerability. Organizations should also implement additional data loss prevention measures and consider the broader implications for their information security posture when relying on third-party data sanitization tools for critical security operations.