CVE-2004-2419 in Media Server
Summary
by MITRE
keene digital media server 1.0.2 allows local users to obtain usernames and passwords by reading the dmscore.db file on the local system.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/19/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-2419 affects the Keene Digital Media Server version 1.0.2, representing a critical security flaw that exposes sensitive authentication credentials through improper file access controls. This issue stems from the server's failure to implement adequate access restrictions on its database file, creating an avenue for local privilege escalation and credential theft. The vulnerability specifically targets the dmscore.db file which contains user authentication information, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to compromise the system's security posture. The flaw demonstrates a fundamental weakness in the application's security architecture where sensitive data is stored in an unsecured manner accessible to any local user with system privileges. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of information disclosure and weak access control mechanisms, creating a pathway for unauthorized access to system resources. The security implications extend beyond simple credential theft as compromised authentication data can enable attackers to escalate privileges and gain deeper system access.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through straightforward file system access methods that allow local users to directly read the dmscore.db database file. This database file contains stored credentials that are not properly encrypted or protected, making them immediately accessible to any user with read permissions on the system. The vulnerability exists because the application does not implement proper file access controls or encryption mechanisms for sensitive data storage. Attackers can simply navigate to the file location and extract the username and password information without requiring additional exploitation techniques or complex attack vectors. This represents a classic case of insufficient access control where the application assumes that local users can be trusted with sensitive data, failing to implement proper security measures. The flaw demonstrates poor security practices in data protection and access management, where the system does not enforce proper separation of privileges or secure storage mechanisms for authentication credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant for organizations relying on Keene Digital Media Server 1.0.2, as it creates an immediate risk of unauthorized access and potential system compromise. Local users who can access the system can obtain authentication credentials for all users configured in the digital media server, potentially enabling them to impersonate legitimate users and access restricted content or system functions. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality and integrity of the system's authentication mechanisms, as sensitive information is stored in an unencrypted format that can be read by any local user. Organizations may experience unauthorized access to digital media resources, potential data breaches, and compromised system integrity when this vulnerability is exploited. The impact extends to both the availability and confidentiality aspects of the system's security model, as attackers can not only steal credentials but also potentially use them to gain administrative access to the media server configuration. This vulnerability directly violates security principles of least privilege and data protection, creating a scenario where local system access translates to unauthorized administrative capabilities.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of proper file access controls and data encryption mechanisms. Organizations should ensure that the dmscore.db file is protected through proper file permissions that restrict access to authorized system administrators only, preventing local users from reading sensitive information. The application should be updated to implement encrypted storage for authentication credentials, eliminating the possibility of plaintext credential exposure. System administrators must verify that the database file is located in secure directories with appropriate access controls and that the application does not store sensitive data in easily accessible formats. The recommended approach includes implementing proper access control lists, file system permissions, and encryption for stored credentials. Additionally, organizations should conduct security audits to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and ensure that all sensitive data is properly protected through encryption and access control mechanisms. This vulnerability highlights the importance of following security standards such as those outlined in the CWE catalog for secure data storage practices and access control implementations, and aligns with ATT&CK techniques related to credential access and privilege escalation through local system exploitation.