CVE-2007-0792 in Bugzilla
Summary
by MITRE
The mod_perl initialization script in Bugzilla 2.23.3 does not set the Bugzilla Apache configuration to allow .htaccess permissions to override file permissions, which allows remote attackers to obtain the database username and password via a direct request for the localconfig file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/19/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-0792 represents a critical configuration flaw within the Bugzilla 2.23.3 web application that stems from improper mod_perl initialization script implementation. This issue specifically affects the Apache web server configuration that powers Bugzilla, creating a pathway for remote attackers to bypass normal access controls and directly access sensitive system information. The flaw exists in the initialization process where the script fails to properly configure Apache's AllowOverride directive, which is essential for maintaining proper file permission hierarchies within the web application environment.
The technical execution of this vulnerability relies on the fundamental misconfiguration of Apache's permission handling mechanisms. When the mod_perl initialization script does not properly set the Bugzilla Apache configuration to permit .htaccess files to override default file permissions, it creates an insecure default state where sensitive configuration files become accessible through direct web requests. This misconfiguration allows attackers to exploit the lack of proper access controls by directly requesting the localconfig file, which contains critical database credentials including both username and password information. The vulnerability essentially removes the layered security controls that should normally protect sensitive configuration data from unauthorized access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it provides attackers with direct access to the database authentication credentials that can be used for further exploitation attempts. Once an attacker obtains the database username and password, they can potentially gain full access to the Bugzilla database, leading to data breaches, unauthorized modifications, or even complete system compromise. This vulnerability operates at the intersection of configuration management and access control, where a single missing configuration parameter creates a significant security gap that violates fundamental security principles. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal technical expertise to exploit and can be automated through simple HTTP requests.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper file permissions, and demonstrates how configuration errors can create security weaknesses that are difficult to detect through standard vulnerability scanning. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability maps to privilege escalation and credential access techniques, as attackers can leverage the exposed database credentials to elevate their privileges within the system. The flaw also represents a failure in secure configuration management practices and violates the principle of least privilege by allowing unnecessary access to sensitive system components. Organizations using Bugzilla 2.23.3 should immediately implement the recommended fix by ensuring that the mod_perl initialization script properly configures Apache to allow .htaccess override permissions, thereby restoring proper access controls and protecting sensitive database credentials from unauthorized access.