CVE-2007-0153 in database
Summary
by MITRE
AJLogin 3.5 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 ajlogin.mdb.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/04/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0153 represents a critical security flaw in AJLogin 3.5 software that exposes sensitive data through improper file access controls. This issue stems from the application's failure to implement adequate access restrictions for files stored within the web root directory, creating an exploitable condition that directly compromises user authentication data. The vulnerability specifically affects the ajlogin.mdb database file which contains password information, making it a prime target for malicious actors seeking unauthorized access to user credentials.
The technical implementation flaw resides in the web application's directory structure and access control mechanisms. When AJLogin 3.5 installs, it places the ajlogin.mdb database file in a location accessible through the web server's document root, without proper authentication checks or access restrictions. This misconfiguration allows any remote attacker to directly request the database file through a simple HTTP GET request, bypassing all intended security controls. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper file permissions and inadequate access control mechanisms, and represents a classic case of insecure direct object reference where the application provides direct access to internal objects without proper authorization checks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it directly enables credential theft and potential account compromise. Remote attackers can immediately download the entire database containing user passwords, usernames, and potentially other sensitive information stored within the ajlogin.mdb file. This exposure creates a pathway for privilege escalation, lateral movement, and persistent access within compromised networks. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and credential access, as attackers can leverage stolen credentials to maintain access to systems. Additionally, the exposure of database files violates security principles outlined in NIST SP 800-53 controls, specifically focusing on access control and data protection requirements.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The primary fix involves relocating the database file outside the web root directory and implementing proper access controls through authentication mechanisms before allowing database access. Organizations should also implement file permission controls to ensure only authorized processes can access sensitive database files. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring and blocking direct requests to database files. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar misconfigurations in other applications. The remediation process should follow security frameworks such as OWASP Top 10 and ISO 27001 standards, emphasizing proper data protection and access control implementation. Organizations must also establish secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future development cycles, ensuring that sensitive data is never stored in publicly accessible locations without appropriate access controls.