CVE-2007-3252 in PortalApp
Summary
by MITRE
PortalApp stores sensitive information under the web root with insufficient access control, which allows remote attackers to download a database via a direct request for 8691.mdb, a different vector than CVE-2004-1786.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/04/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-3252 represents a critical configuration flaw in PortalApp software that exposes sensitive database files to unauthorized access. This issue manifests when the application stores database files in directories that are accessible through the web root, creating an attack surface that directly contradicts fundamental web security principles. The specific file 8691.mdb becomes a target for remote attackers who can bypass normal access controls through direct HTTP requests, effectively eliminating the need for complex exploitation techniques that might be required in other scenarios.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper file access control mechanisms within the web application's directory structure. When database files are placed in web-accessible directories without adequate authentication checks or authorization controls, any remote user who knows the file path can retrieve the database contents directly. This configuration violates the principle of least privilege and demonstrates poor security by design practices where sensitive data is not properly protected through access control mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically targets the web root directory structure, making it particularly dangerous as it allows attackers to bypass typical application-level security controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to potentially compromise entire database contents and underlying system integrity. Remote attackers can download the entire database file 8691.mdb, which may contain sensitive user information, application data, or system configurations that could be exploited for further attacks. This exposure creates opportunities for data breaches, identity theft, and system compromise that could affect multiple users and applications depending on the database content. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by its accessibility through simple HTTP requests, making it easily exploitable by attackers with minimal technical expertise.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 (Improper Limiting of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory) and CWE-200 (Information Exposure) categories, representing a clear violation of secure coding practices and access control principles. The attack vector described in CVE-2007-3252 operates under the ATT&CK framework's T1071.004 (Application Layer Protocol: DNS) and T1041 (Exfiltration Over C2 Channel) techniques, as attackers can directly request sensitive files without complex exploitation. Organizations should implement proper file access controls, ensure database files are stored outside web-accessible directories, and enforce strict access control mechanisms to prevent unauthorized database access. The remediation approach requires immediate directory restructuring, implementation of proper authentication checks, and regular security assessments to identify similar misconfigurations that could expose sensitive data to unauthorized access.