CVE-2009-2429 in SmartFilter
Summary
by MITRE
SmartFilter Web Gateway Security 4.2.1.00 stores user credentials in cleartext in admin_backup.xml files and uses insecure permissions for these files, which allows local users to gain privileges. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/18/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-2429 affects SmartFilter Web Gateway Security version 4.2.1.00, presenting a critical security flaw in how user credentials are stored and managed within the system. This weakness stems from the application's improper handling of sensitive authentication data, specifically the storage of user credentials in cleartext format within admin_backup.xml configuration files. The flaw represents a fundamental failure in secure credential management practices, where sensitive information should never be stored in an easily readable format without proper encryption or obfuscation mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's use of insecure file permissions for the admin_backup.xml files, creating an environment where local users can access these critical configuration files without proper authorization. This misconfiguration allows attackers with local system access to directly read the cleartext credentials stored within these files, effectively bypassing any authentication mechanisms that might otherwise protect the system. The vulnerability operates at the file system level and demonstrates poor privilege separation, as the application fails to implement proper access controls that would restrict read access to these sensitive files.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates a significant escalation path for local attackers who can leverage the cleartext credentials to gain unauthorized access to administrative functions within the SmartFilter Web Gateway. The implications extend beyond simple privilege escalation, as these credentials could potentially provide access to network filtering controls, user management functions, and other administrative capabilities that would allow attackers to modify security policies, monitor network traffic, or disable protective measures. The vulnerability essentially provides a backdoor mechanism that undermines the entire security posture of the system, as local access can lead to complete administrative control.
The weakness aligns with CWE-312 (Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information) and CWE-276 (Incorrect Permission Assignment), both of which are fundamental security principles that address the proper handling of sensitive data and access controls. From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1078 (Valid Accounts) and T1566 (Phishing), as it enables attackers to obtain legitimate administrative credentials that can be used for further exploitation. The vulnerability also represents a failure in the principle of least privilege, as the system does not properly restrict access to administrative configuration files that contain sensitive authentication data.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including the application of proper file permissions that restrict access to admin_backup.xml files to only authorized administrative users, the implementation of encryption for sensitive credential storage, and the regular auditing of file access controls. System administrators should also consider implementing monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized access attempts to sensitive configuration files, while the vendor should provide patches that address the insecure credential storage and permission handling mechanisms. Regular security assessments should include verification that sensitive data is not stored in cleartext format and that proper access controls are implemented throughout the system.