CVE-2006-3675 in database
Summary
by MITRE
Password Safe 2.11, 2.16 and 3.0BETA1 does not respect the configuration settings for locking the password database when certain dialogue windows are open, which might allow attackers with physical access to obtain the database contents.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/16/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-3675 affects Password Safe versions 2.11, 2.16, and 3.0BETA1, representing a critical flaw in access control mechanisms for password management software. This issue manifests as a failure to properly enforce configuration settings that should lock the password database when specific dialogue windows are active, creating a security gap that can be exploited by attackers with physical access to the system. The vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and confidentiality of stored password credentials, as it allows unauthorized access to sensitive information that should remain protected during interactive sessions.
The technical flaw stems from improper implementation of database locking mechanisms within the application's user interface components. When dialogue windows are open for database operations, the software fails to maintain the configured security state that would normally lock the database file. This behavior creates a window of opportunity where an attacker with physical access can potentially extract or modify password database contents while the application believes it is operating in a secure state. The vulnerability operates at the application level rather than at the system or network level, making it particularly dangerous in environments where physical security controls may be insufficient.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass potential credential theft, account compromise, and broader security breaches within organizations that rely on the affected password management software. Attackers can exploit this weakness to gain access to multiple stored credentials, potentially leading to lateral movement within networks, privilege escalation, and persistent access to critical systems. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where physical access controls are weak or where users may be unaware of the security implications of leaving dialogue windows open during database operations.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-613, which addresses insufficient session management, and reflects poor adherence to the principle of least privilege in application design. The issue also correlates with ATT&CK technique T1552.001, which covers credentials in files, as it enables attackers to obtain stored credentials through improper access control. Mitigation strategies include immediate patching of affected versions, implementation of stricter physical security measures, user education regarding proper application usage, and configuration reviews to ensure database locking mechanisms function correctly. Organizations should also consider implementing additional access controls such as full disk encryption and multi-factor authentication to provide defense-in-depth against potential exploitation of this vulnerability.