CVE-2007-0091 in newsCMSlite
Summary
by MITRE
newsCMSlite stores sensitive information under the web root with insufficient access control, which allows remote attackers to download a database containing passwords via a direct request for newsCMS.mdb.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/15/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0091 represents a critical misconfiguration issue within the newsCMSlite content management system that exposes sensitive data to unauthorized remote attackers. This flaw stems from improper security controls that allow attackers to directly access database files through web requests, creating a significant risk for systems running this software. The vulnerability specifically affects versions of newsCMSlite that store their database files in directories accessible through the web root, enabling attackers to bypass normal access controls and retrieve sensitive information without authentication.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the web server configuration failing to properly restrict access to database files stored within the web application directory structure. When attackers request the specific database file newsCMS.mdb through a direct web request, the server responds with the file contents without requiring authentication or authorization checks. This represents a fundamental failure in access control mechanisms that should prevent direct file access to sensitive application components. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through simple http requests, making it particularly dangerous as it requires no complex exploitation techniques.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the database file contains passwords that are typically stored in plain text format within the database. This exposure allows attackers to gain unauthorized access to user accounts and potentially escalate privileges within the affected system. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality and integrity of the system, as attackers can not only obtain passwords but may also access other sensitive data stored within the database. Additionally, the exposure of database credentials can enable further attacks such as database manipulation, data exfiltration, or use of stolen credentials for lateral movement within network environments.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which addresses improper exposure of sensitive information, and CWE-22, which covers improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory. The attack pattern corresponds to T1078 in the ATT&CK framework, specifically focusing on valid accounts and credential access through information gathering and exploitation of weak access controls. The flaw demonstrates poor security practices in web application development, particularly in how sensitive data is stored and accessed within the application architecture. Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement access control restrictions, relocate database files outside the web root, and ensure proper authentication mechanisms are in place to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive application data.