CVE-2008-5107 in Presentation Server
Summary
by MITRE
The installation process for Citrix Presentation Server 4.5 and Desktop Server 1.0, when MSI logging is enabled, stores database credentials in MSI log files, which allows local users to obtain these credentials by reading the log files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/29/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5107 represents a critical security flaw in the Citrix Presentation Server 4.5 and Desktop Server 1.0 installation processes. This issue specifically manifests when the Microsoft Installer (MSI) logging functionality is enabled during software deployment, creating a persistent security risk that can be exploited by local attackers. The flaw stems from the improper handling of sensitive authentication data during the installation phase, where database credentials are inadvertently written to log files without adequate protection measures. This vulnerability directly violates fundamental security principles by exposing privileged information through insecure storage mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the MSI installation framework where the installation process fails to sanitize or encrypt database authentication credentials before writing them to log files. When MSI logging is enabled, the installation utility creates detailed log records that capture various installation parameters including database connection strings and authentication tokens. These log files, typically stored in temporary directories or standard installation log locations, contain the plaintext credentials in a format that is easily accessible to any user with read permissions on the system. The flaw operates at the system level where the installation process lacks proper input validation and output sanitization, creating a path for sensitive data exposure through routine administrative functions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as local users with minimal privileges can exploit this weakness to gain unauthorized access to backend database systems. Attackers can leverage this information to perform database enumeration, data extraction, or even escalate privileges within the Citrix environment. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector since log files may remain accessible for extended periods, potentially allowing attackers to maintain access even after the initial installation process has completed. This threat is particularly severe in enterprise environments where Citrix servers are commonly deployed, as database credentials often provide access to critical enterprise data repositories and user authentication systems.
From a cybersecurity framework perspective, this vulnerability maps directly to CWE-312 (CWE-312: Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information) and CWE-200 (CWE-200: Exposure of Sensitive Information) within the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog. The flaw also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1552.001 (T1552.001: Unsecured Credentials) and T1078 (T1078: Valid Accounts) as it enables attackers to obtain valid database credentials and subsequently leverage them for unauthorized access. The vulnerability demonstrates poor security hygiene in the installation process and highlights the critical importance of secure credential handling practices during software deployment. Organizations implementing Citrix solutions must consider this vulnerability as a potential attack surface that could lead to broader system compromise and data breaches.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate implementation of proper log file access controls, enabling secure logging mechanisms that prevent plaintext credential storage, and conducting comprehensive system audits to identify and remove existing credential exposure. System administrators should disable MSI logging during production installations unless absolutely necessary, implement regular log file monitoring and cleanup procedures, and ensure that all installation processes follow secure coding practices. Additionally, organizations should deploy network segmentation controls to limit local user access and implement privileged access management solutions to reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical need for comprehensive security testing during software development and deployment phases, particularly focusing on credential handling and secure logging practices that align with industry standards such as NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001 requirements for information security management.