CVE-2002-2293 in Webshots Desktop
Summary
by MITRE
Webshots Desktop screensaver allows local users to bypass the password on the screensaver by pressing CTRL-ALT-DELETE and (1) hitting the cancel button or (2) killing the screensaver from the task manager.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/20/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-2293 resides within the Webshots Desktop screensaver implementation, representing a significant security flaw in the authentication mechanisms of desktop environments. This issue specifically affects systems where the Webshots screensaver is installed and configured to require password protection upon screen activation. The vulnerability stems from the screensaver's failure to properly enforce authentication boundaries, creating a critical weakness that allows unauthorized access to systems protected by password-protected screensavers.
The technical flaw manifests through two distinct attack vectors that exploit the screensaver's interaction with the Windows operating system's security framework. When a local user triggers the screensaver and subsequently presses CTRL-ALT-DELETE, they can bypass the password requirement by either clicking the cancel button on the authentication dialog or terminating the screensaver process through the Windows task manager. This behavior violates fundamental security principles by allowing privilege escalation without proper authentication verification. The vulnerability is classified as a bypass vulnerability under CWE-284, which deals with improper access control, and specifically relates to CWE-285, which addresses improper authorization mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple convenience theft, representing a serious security risk that could lead to unauthorized system access, data exposure, and potential privilege escalation. Attackers can exploit this flaw to gain access to systems protected by screensavers, potentially accessing sensitive information, modifying system configurations, or establishing persistent access points. The vulnerability affects both individual users and enterprise environments where password-protected screensavers are used as basic security controls. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1546.004, which covers 'Event Triggered Execution: Screensaver' and T1078.004, which addresses 'Valid Accounts: Default Accounts,' as it exploits the legitimate screensaver functionality to bypass security controls.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through software updates from Webshots, which would involve patching the screensaver implementation to properly enforce authentication boundaries. System administrators should disable the Webshots screensaver if it is not essential for business operations, as this eliminates the attack surface entirely. Additionally, implementing Group Policy configurations to enforce stronger screensaver security settings can provide additional protection layers. Organizations should also consider implementing comprehensive security awareness training to educate users about the risks associated with local privilege escalation attacks and the importance of proper system configuration. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and authentication boundary enforcement in security-critical applications, particularly those that interact with operating system security mechanisms.