CVE-2007-5626 in Bacula_backup
Summary
by MITRE
make_catalog_backup in Bacula 2.2.5, and probably earlier, sends a MySQL password as a command line argument, and sometimes transmits cleartext e-mail containing this command line, which allows context-dependent attackers to obtain the password by listing the process and its arguments, or by sniffing the network.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/14/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-5626 represents a critical security flaw in Bacula version 2.2.5 and potentially earlier releases, specifically within the make_catalog_backup functionality. This issue stems from the improper handling of authentication credentials during backup operations, creating a significant exposure point for malicious actors who can exploit process enumeration and network sniffing techniques to extract sensitive information. The vulnerability directly impacts the security posture of backup systems that rely on Bacula's catalog backup mechanisms, potentially compromising entire backup infrastructures.
The technical implementation flaw occurs when the make_catalog_backup function constructs command line arguments for MySQL database connections, embedding the MySQL password directly as a parameter within the process invocation. This approach violates fundamental security principles by exposing authentication credentials in plaintext within process lists accessible through standard system monitoring tools. The cleartext transmission extends beyond local process enumeration to include network traffic interception, as the command line arguments containing the password are transmitted over networks during backup operations, creating multiple attack vectors for credential theft.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates immediate and severe consequences for organizations relying on Bacula backup systems. Attackers with minimal privileges can easily extract database passwords through simple process listing commands such as ps or similar system monitoring tools, or through network packet capture activities using tools like tcpdump or wireshark. The exposure affects not only the database password but also potentially other sensitive configuration elements embedded in the command line, leading to unauthorized access to backup catalogs and associated data repositories. This vulnerability particularly impacts environments where backup systems are not properly secured or monitored for process visibility.
The security implications extend beyond immediate credential exposure to encompass broader attack surface considerations within backup infrastructure. According to CWE standards, this vulnerability maps to CWE-312 (Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information) and CWE-255 (Credentials Management Issues), highlighting the fundamental flaws in how authentication credentials are handled during system operations. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a credential access technique, specifically related to process discovery and network sniffing activities that adversaries can employ to harvest sensitive information from running processes. Organizations implementing Bacula backup solutions face increased risk of data breaches, unauthorized access to backup repositories, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate implementation of secure credential handling practices, including the adoption of environment variables or configuration files with restricted access permissions for storing database credentials instead of command line parameters. System administrators should implement process monitoring and access controls to limit visibility of sensitive command line arguments, while network segmentation and encryption should be enforced to prevent interception of cleartext communications. Regular security audits and process enumeration reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate similar credential exposure vulnerabilities across backup infrastructure components. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of proper security configuration management and the need for regular updates to ensure that known security flaws are addressed through patched versions of Bacula software.