CVE-2004-2313 in SqWebMail
Summary
by MITRE
Inter7 SqWebMail 3.4.1 through 3.6.1 generates different error messages for incorrect passwords versus correct passwords on non-mail-enabled accounts (such as root), which allows remote attackers to guess the root password via brute force attacks.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/25/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-2313 represents a classic information disclosure issue that undermines the security of the Inter7 SqWebMail webmail application. This flaw exists in versions 3.4.1 through 3.6.1 of the software, where the application exhibits inconsistent error handling behavior when processing authentication attempts. The vulnerability specifically manifests when attempting to authenticate against non-mail-enabled accounts such as the root user account, creating a discernible difference in error message responses between valid and invalid password attempts.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's failure to maintain consistent error messaging across authentication attempts. When an attacker submits an incorrect password for a non-mail-enabled account, the system returns a different error message compared to when a correct password is provided. This differential response creates a timing and content-based side channel that can be exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability directly relates to CWE-200, which addresses information exposure through improper error handling, and specifically aligns with CWE-312, concerning exposure of sensitive information through error messages.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability enables remote attackers to conduct systematic brute force attacks against the root account with significantly increased success probability. The attacker can repeatedly attempt to guess the root password while monitoring the system's response patterns, distinguishing between correct and incorrect attempts based on the subtle differences in error messages. This type of attack falls under the ATT&CK technique T1110, which covers credential access through brute force methods, and demonstrates how seemingly minor implementation flaws can create substantial security risks.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple password guessing, as it fundamentally compromises the authentication security model of the webmail application. Attackers can leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to system administrative accounts, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on webmail interfaces for administrative access, particularly those with older software versions that have not received security updates. The issue is particularly concerning because it does not require privileged access to exploit and can be executed remotely, making it accessible to attackers regardless of their physical location or network proximity to the target system.
Effective mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve implementing consistent error handling across all authentication attempts, ensuring that error messages remain uniform regardless of whether the account exists or the password is correct. Organizations should immediately update to patched versions of Inter7 SqWebMail or implement alternative authentication mechanisms that do not expose this information disclosure risk. Additional protective measures include implementing account lockout mechanisms, enforcing strong password policies, and deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious authentication patterns. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of consistent error handling in security-sensitive applications, as outlined in security best practices and standards such as those defined in the OWASP Top Ten project.