CVE-2007-0149 in database
Summary
by MITRE
EMembersPro 1.0 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 users.mdb.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/02/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0149 affects EMembersPro version 1.0, a web application that suffers from improper access control mechanisms. This flaw resides in the application's configuration where sensitive database files are stored within the web root directory structure, creating a critical security exposure that can be exploited by remote attackers without authentication. The specific issue involves the users.mdb file, which contains password information and other sensitive user data, being directly accessible through simple HTTP requests.
This vulnerability represents a classic case of insecure direct object reference as classified under CWE-22, where the application provides direct access to internal objects without proper authorization checks. The flaw occurs because the web server configuration fails to implement appropriate access controls or authentication mechanisms for database files stored in publicly accessible directories. Attackers can simply construct a direct URL request to access the users.mdb file, bypassing any intended security measures that should protect sensitive data from unauthorized access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. Remote attackers can immediately obtain complete user credential databases containing hashed or plaintext passwords, user accounts, and potentially other sensitive information stored within the mdb file. This exposure enables various attack vectors including credential reuse attacks, account takeover attempts, and further exploitation of the compromised system. The vulnerability essentially provides attackers with a complete database of user information that can be used for social engineering, brute force attacks, or as a foundation for more sophisticated compromise techniques.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing for Information) as attackers can systematically discover and exploit such misconfigurations. The lack of access controls creates a persistent risk that remains active until properly addressed through configuration changes or application updates. Organizations using EMembersPro 1.0 are particularly vulnerable because the flaw exists at the configuration level rather than requiring complex exploitation techniques, making it an attractive target for automated scanning tools and opportunistic attackers.
The recommended mitigations include immediate reconfiguration of the web server to prevent direct access to database files, implementation of proper access controls and authentication mechanisms, and regular security audits to identify similar misconfigurations. The application should be updated to version 1.1 or later where this vulnerability has been addressed. Additionally, organizations should implement proper file permissions, move database files outside of the web root, and establish monitoring procedures to detect unauthorized access attempts to sensitive files. This vulnerability serves as a critical reminder of the importance of secure configuration management and the principle of least privilege in web application security.