CVE-2002-2067 in East-Tec Eraser
Summary
by MITRE
East-Tec Eraser 2002 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-2002-2067 resides within East-Tec Eraser 2002, a data sanitization tool designed to securely delete files and prevent data recovery. This flaw represents a critical oversight in the tool's implementation specifically targeting NTFS file systems where alternate data streams exist as a native feature. The vulnerability stems from the software's inability to properly handle and clear these alternate data streams that are attached to files, creating a persistent security risk that undermines the intended purpose of data sanitization.
The technical flaw manifests in the software's failure to recognize that NTFS file systems support multiple data streams per file, including primary and alternate streams that can contain additional data beyond the main file content. When East-Tec Eraser 2002 processes file deletion, it only clears the primary data stream while leaving alternate data streams untouched, allowing attackers to recover sensitive information that was supposed to be permanently deleted. This behavior directly violates fundamental security principles of data sanitization and represents a failure in comprehensive file system traversal and clearing operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it creates a persistent information disclosure risk that can affect organizations relying on the tool for secure data disposal. Attackers can exploit this weakness by examining files for attached alternate data streams, potentially recovering deleted passwords, personal information, or confidential documents that were thought to be permanently removed. The vulnerability specifically affects Windows environments where NTFS is the primary file system, making it particularly relevant in corporate and enterprise settings where sensitive data management is critical. This weakness undermines the security posture of organizations that depend on proper data sanitization practices.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-225, which addresses insufficient data sanitization and improper handling of file system features that can retain sensitive information. The flaw also relates to ATT&CK technique T1486, which covers data encryption for ransomware, as the persistent presence of alternate data streams creates a similar risk of data recovery. Organizations should consider this vulnerability as part of their broader data sanitization strategy, ensuring that all file system features are properly addressed during deletion processes. The recommended mitigations include immediate replacement of the vulnerable software with a properly functioning data sanitization tool that supports comprehensive NTFS stream clearing, implementation of additional verification processes, and regular auditing of file system features to ensure proper sanitization across all data streams.