CVE-2007-4526 in Client Login Extension (cle)
Summary
by MITRE
The Client Login Extension (CLE) in Novell Identity Manager before 3.5.1 20070730 stores the username and password in a local file, which allows local users to obtain sensitive information by reading this file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/31/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-4526 represents a critical security flaw within Novell Identity Manager's Client Login Extension component. This issue affects versions prior to 3.5.1 released on July 30, 2007, and demonstrates a fundamental weakness in how authentication credentials are handled within the system. The Client Login Extension serves as an authentication mechanism that facilitates user access to identity management services, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it directly impacts the security posture of the entire identity infrastructure. The flaw stems from improper credential storage practices that expose sensitive authentication data to unauthorized local system access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the CLE component storing both username and password information in a local file on the system where the extension is installed. This approach violates established security principles for credential management and creates a persistent attack surface that remains accessible to any local user with file system permissions. The local file storage mechanism essentially transforms what should be a secure authentication process into a potential vector for credential theft, as the credentials are stored in plaintext or minimally encrypted formats that can be easily accessed. This flaw directly maps to CWE-312, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper data handling, and specifically aligns with CWE-522 which covers insufficiently protected credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it provides attackers with persistent access to identity management systems that may have elevated privileges or access to sensitive organizational resources. Local users who can read the stored file gain immediate access to authentication credentials that could potentially be used to access other systems within the organization, particularly if the same credentials are reused across multiple platforms. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical skill and provides high-value access, making it attractive to both malicious insiders and external attackers who have gained local system access. This weakness undermines the principle of least privilege and creates a scenario where local system compromise automatically translates into identity management system compromise.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to Novell Identity Manager version 3.5.1 or later, which addresses the credential storage issue through proper encryption and access controls. System administrators should also conduct thorough audits of local file permissions and implement monitoring for unauthorized file access attempts. The remediation process should include reviewing and strengthening local system security controls, implementing proper credential management practices, and ensuring that authentication data is stored using industry-standard encryption mechanisms. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of proper credential handling and the necessity of following security frameworks such as those recommended by the National Institute of Standards and Technology for protecting sensitive information in distributed systems. Additionally, this issue aligns with ATT&CK technique T1555.003 which covers credential access through system file modification, highlighting the need for comprehensive endpoint protection and privilege management controls.