CVE-2002-2119 in eDirectory
Summary
by MITRE
Novell eDirectory 8.6.2 and 8.7 use case insensitive passwords, which makes it easier for remote attackers to conduct brute force password guessing.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/09/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-2119 affects Novell eDirectory versions 8.6.2 and 8.7, where the authentication system implements case insensitive password checking. This design flaw fundamentally weakens the security posture of the directory service by allowing attackers to bypass normal password complexity requirements through simple case variations. The vulnerability represents a classic authentication weakness that directly impacts the principle of least privilege and proper access control enforcement. From a cybersecurity perspective, this issue creates an unnecessary attack vector that significantly reduces the effective entropy of user passwords, making them more susceptible to automated guessing attacks.
The technical implementation flaw stems from the decision to normalize password comparisons regardless of case sensitivity, which violates standard security practices for authentication systems. This weakness enables attackers to leverage dictionary attacks or brute force methodologies more effectively by testing common password patterns with varying case combinations. The vulnerability specifically affects the authentication module within Novell eDirectory, where password validation occurs before access is granted to directory resources. This design decision creates a predictable pattern that automated attack tools can exploit without requiring additional complexity or specialized techniques.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple password guessing attacks to potentially enable broader system compromise. Attackers can leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to directory services, potentially escalating privileges to administrative levels or accessing sensitive organizational data. The vulnerability affects enterprise environments where Novell eDirectory serves as a central authentication repository, making it particularly dangerous in large organizations with extensive directory service dependencies. From an attacker's perspective, this weakness reduces the time and computational resources required to compromise user accounts, effectively lowering the barrier to successful unauthorized access attempts.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of broader authentication security frameworks and the principles outlined in the NIST Special Publication 800-63B for digital identity management. The flaw aligns with CWE-521 Weak Password Requirements and demonstrates poor implementation of authentication controls that should enforce proper password policies. Organizations should implement additional compensating controls such as account lockout mechanisms, failed login attempt monitoring, and network-based access controls to mitigate the risk. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper security testing during software development phases, particularly around authentication and authorization components. Remediation strategies should include applying vendor patches, enforcing case-sensitive password policies, and implementing multi-factor authentication to reduce the overall risk exposure associated with this weakness.