CVE-2007-0413 in WebLogic Server
Summary
by MITRE
BEA WebLogic Server 8.1 through 8.1 SP5 stores cleartext data in a backup of config.xml after offline editing, which allows local users to obtain sensitive information by reading this backup file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/16/2019
BEA WebLogic Server versions 8.1 through 8.1 Service Pack 5 contain a critical security flaw that exposes sensitive configuration data through improper file handling during offline modifications. This vulnerability stems from the server's configuration management process where cleartext credentials and sensitive information are inadvertently preserved in backup files generated during configuration changes. The flaw represents a classic case of insecure data storage and configuration management practices that violate fundamental security principles. When administrators modify the config.xml file offline, the system creates backup copies that contain the same cleartext information as the original configuration, creating persistent exposure windows for unauthorized access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the WebLogic Server's configuration persistence mechanism where offline editing operations fail to properly sanitize sensitive data before creating backup files. The backup files typically contain database connection strings, user credentials, encryption keys, and other administrative information in plain text format. This behavior directly maps to CWE-312, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper data handling. The vulnerability exists because the system does not implement proper data sanitization or encryption mechanisms when creating backup copies of configuration files. Attackers can exploit this by simply locating the backup files within the WebLogic Server installation directory structure, which often follows predictable naming conventions and locations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft to encompass complete system compromise potential. Local attackers with minimal privileges can access backup files containing administrative credentials, database passwords, and other sensitive configuration parameters that would otherwise require elevated access to obtain. This creates a significant risk for organizations where local system access may be more easily obtained than network-level administrative privileges. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality aspect of the CIA triad and can lead to unauthorized access to backend databases, privilege escalation opportunities, and potential lateral movement within the network. The attack surface is particularly concerning in environments where multiple administrators may have local access to the WebLogic server machines, as each backup file represents a potential entry point for attackers.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. Organizations should implement mandatory configuration file sanitization processes that automatically encrypt or remove sensitive data from backup files during offline modifications. The recommended approach includes configuring the WebLogic Server to disable automatic backup creation for sensitive configuration files or implementing custom backup scripts that strip sensitive information before creating copies. Security best practices dictate that all sensitive data should be protected through proper encryption at rest, and the system should be configured to enforce secure configuration management protocols. This vulnerability highlights the importance of following ATT&CK framework principles for privilege escalation and credential access, as attackers can leverage such flaws to obtain administrative credentials without requiring complex exploitation techniques. Organizations should also implement regular security audits to identify and remove existing backup files containing sensitive information, while establishing proper access controls to limit local system access to authorized personnel only.