CVE-2003-1476 in FTP Server
Summary
by MITRE
Cerberus FTP Server 2.1 stores usernames and passwords in plaintext, which could allow local users to gain access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/05/2017
The Cerberus FTP Server version 2.1 contains a critical security flaw that stems from its improper handling of authentication credentials. This vulnerability resides in the server's configuration where user credentials are stored in plaintext format rather than being properly encrypted or hashed. The flaw represents a fundamental failure in secure credential storage practices and creates an exploitable condition that directly compromises user account security. The vulnerability affects local users who have access to the server's file system or configuration files, as they can directly read the stored credentials without requiring additional authentication mechanisms.
This technical weakness manifests as a direct violation of secure password storage principles and aligns with CWE-256, which addresses the storage of cleartext passwords. The flaw operates at the application level within the FTP server's authentication subsystem, where user credentials are written to configuration files without adequate cryptographic protection. The plaintext storage means that any local user with read access to the server configuration files can immediately extract usernames and passwords, effectively bypassing all authentication mechanisms that the system is designed to enforce. This represents a classic privilege escalation vulnerability that allows unauthorized access to user accounts through simple file reading operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft to encompass broader security implications for organizations relying on the affected FTP server. Local attackers can leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to user accounts, potentially leading to data exfiltration, system compromise, or unauthorized modifications to files and configurations. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that remains active as long as the server operates with the insecure configuration, making it particularly dangerous for environments where local access controls are not strictly enforced. Additionally, the presence of plaintext credentials increases the risk of credential reuse attacks and provides attackers with a complete set of user credentials for potential lateral movement within the network infrastructure.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including the immediate replacement of the vulnerable Cerberus FTP Server version with a secure alternative that properly implements credential encryption. The recommended approach involves upgrading to a version that implements proper password hashing mechanisms and secure credential storage practices. System administrators should also enforce strict local access controls and implement monitoring for unauthorized file access attempts. Configuration reviews should ensure that no plaintext credentials exist in accessible locations, and that all authentication mechanisms are properly secured. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following security best practices outlined in industry standards such as NIST SP 800-63B for password management and authentication system design, which emphasize the need for proper credential storage and protection against unauthorized access to sensitive information.