CVE-2006-3965 in Banex
Summary
by MITRE
Banex PHP MySQL Banner Exchange 2.21 stores lib.inc under the web document root with insufficient access control, which allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information such as database usernames and passwords.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/01/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-3965 affects the Banex PHP MySQL Banner Exchange version 2.21, representing a critical security flaw in web application configuration and access control mechanisms. This issue stems from the improper placement of sensitive configuration files within the web document root directory structure, creating an exploitable path for unauthorized information disclosure. The vulnerability specifically targets the lib.inc file which contains critical database authentication credentials, thereby exposing fundamental system security elements to remote attackers without proper authentication or authorization.
The technical flaw manifests through inadequate access control measures implemented within the application's file structure and web server configuration. When the lib.inc file is stored in the web document root, it becomes directly accessible via HTTP requests, bypassing normal application security controls and authentication mechanisms. This misconfiguration allows attackers to construct simple URL requests that retrieve the file contents, thereby obtaining database connection strings that typically contain usernames, passwords, and other sensitive database configuration parameters. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-276, which addresses improper file permissions and inadequate access control, and represents a classic example of insecure direct object reference where sensitive files are exposed through predictable paths.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the foundational credentials necessary for database-level attacks and potential system compromise. Once an attacker obtains the database credentials, they can directly access and manipulate the underlying MySQL database, potentially leading to data exfiltration, data corruption, or complete database takeover. This vulnerability enables a wide range of malicious activities including but not limited to unauthorized data access, privilege escalation, and further exploitation of the compromised system. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that this vulnerability affects the core database connection parameters that are essential for application functionality and security.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate remediation of the file placement configuration and implementation of proper access controls. The primary solution involves moving the lib.inc file outside the web document root directory and ensuring that web servers are configured to prevent direct access to sensitive configuration files. Network security controls should be implemented to restrict access to the application's configuration files through web server access control lists and proper file permissions. Additionally, organizations should implement the principle of least privilege by ensuring that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive configuration files and that file permissions are set to prevent unauthorized access. The remediation process should include comprehensive security auditing of web application configurations and implementation of automated monitoring for similar misconfigurations. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 which covers credential access through insecure configuration and improper file permissions, emphasizing the need for systematic security hardening of web applications.