CVE-2003-0499 in Mantis
Summary
by MITRE
Mantis 0.17.5 and earlier stores its database password in cleartext in a world-readable configuration file, which allows local users to perform unauthorized database operations.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/29/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-0499 represents a critical security flaw in Mantis version 0.17.5 and earlier, where database credentials are stored in plain text within a configuration file that has world-readable permissions. This configuration file contains sensitive authentication information that is essential for database access, creating an inherent security risk that can be exploited by any local user with read access to the system. The flaw stems from improper privilege management and insecure configuration practices that violate fundamental security principles of least privilege and secure credential handling.
This vulnerability operates at the system configuration level and constitutes a classic example of insecure storage of sensitive information, which maps directly to CWE-312 - Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information. The technical implementation flaw occurs when the application framework fails to properly secure authentication credentials during the configuration phase, allowing unauthorized access to database resources through simple file read operations. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it does not require network access or complex exploitation techniques, making it easily accessible to any local user who can read the configuration file.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it enables local users to perform unauthorized database operations including but not limited to data extraction, modification, deletion, and potentially privilege escalation within the database environment. Attackers can leverage this access to manipulate application data, compromise user accounts, or gain deeper insights into the system infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality and integrity of the entire database ecosystem, as the cleartext password provides direct access to database resources without requiring additional authentication factors or complex attack vectors.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through proper file permission settings and credential management practices. The configuration file containing database credentials must be secured with restrictive permissions, typically limiting access to the application user account or specific system administrators. Additionally, organizations should implement centralized credential management solutions and consider migrating to encrypted configuration storage mechanisms. This vulnerability highlights the importance of following security best practices as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1552.001 - Unsecured Credentials, emphasizing the need for proper credential handling and secure configuration management in application deployment and maintenance processes.