CVE-2007-3275 in MailWasher Server
Summary
by MITRE
MailWasher Server before 2.2.1, when used with LDAP or Active Directory (AD), does not properly handle blank passwords, which allows remote attackers to access an arbitrary user account and read the spam e-mail messages stored for that account, possibly related to the LoginCheck::doPost function in mwi/servlet/Login.cpp. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/24/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-3275 affects MailWasher Server versions prior to 2.2.1 and represents a critical authentication flaw that undermines the security of email server systems relying on LDAP or Active Directory integration. This vulnerability specifically targets the authentication mechanism within the LoginCheck::doPost function located in mwi/servlet/Login.cpp, where the software fails to properly validate password inputs. The flaw enables remote attackers to exploit the system by submitting blank password credentials, which the server incorrectly accepts, thereby granting unauthorized access to any user account within the directory service.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and authentication logic within the MailWasher Server's login servlet. When LDAP or Active Directory authentication is enabled, the system should enforce strict password validation to prevent null or empty password attempts. However, the flawed implementation allows blank passwords to bypass authentication checks, creating a path for attackers to access user mailboxes and read stored spam email messages. This represents a classic authentication bypass vulnerability that can be exploited remotely without requiring prior authorization or credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access to email accounts. Attackers can leverage this flaw to read potentially sensitive email content, including spam messages that may contain malicious links, phishing attempts, or other security threats. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where MailWasher Server integrates with Active Directory, as it allows attackers to access multiple user accounts within the domain. This could result in data leakage, privacy violations, and potential escalation to broader network compromise through access to email-based credentials or information.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-254, which addresses "Security Features" and specifically relates to inadequate authentication mechanisms. The flaw demonstrates poor security implementation in authentication logic where the system fails to properly validate user inputs, creating an authentication bypass scenario. Additionally, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1078.004, "Valid Accounts: Cloud Accounts," as it allows attackers to leverage legitimate user accounts through improper authentication handling. The remote exploit capability makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it requires no local system access or physical presence.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to MailWasher Server version 2.2.1 or later, which contains the necessary authentication fixes. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit exposure, while monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual authentication patterns. Security administrators should also review and harden LDAP and Active Directory integration settings to ensure proper credential validation. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar authentication bypass vulnerabilities in other systems. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of proper input validation and authentication mechanisms in server applications, particularly those handling sensitive email data and integrating with enterprise directory services.