CVE-2009-4269 in Derby
Summary
by MITRE
The password hash generation algorithm in the BUILTIN authentication functionality for Apache Derby before 10.6.1.0 performs a transformation that reduces the size of the set of inputs to SHA-1, which produces a small search space that makes it easier for local and possibly remote attackers to crack passwords by generating hash collisions, related to password substitution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/28/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-4269 affects Apache Derby database systems prior to version 10.6.1.0, specifically within the BUILTIN authentication mechanism that handles password hash generation. This weakness stems from a fundamental flaw in how password hashes are computed, creating a reduced search space that significantly weakens password security. The vulnerability operates at the cryptographic level where the transformation process intentionally or unintentionally limits the input domain for SHA-1 hashing, effectively reducing the entropy of the resulting password hashes. This cryptographic weakness creates a scenario where attackers can more easily reverse-engineer passwords through brute force or dictionary attacks due to the diminished complexity of the hash space. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects the core authentication functionality of the database system, making it a critical security concern for any environment relying on Derby's built-in user authentication.
The technical implementation flaw involves the password hash generation algorithm performing a specific transformation that reduces the cardinality of the input space before applying the SHA-1 hashing function. This transformation creates a mathematical constraint that limits the number of possible hash outputs, effectively creating a smaller search space for potential attackers to exploit. The reduction in input entropy means that instead of the full 160-bit SHA-1 output space being utilized, attackers can focus their efforts on a significantly smaller subset of possible hash values. This weakness aligns with CWE-327, which addresses the use of weak cryptographic algorithms or improper implementation of cryptographic functions. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond local attacks to potentially remote exploitation scenarios, as the compromised authentication mechanism could allow unauthorized access to database resources. The specific nature of the transformation suggests a design flaw where the developers may have intended to optimize performance or reduce storage requirements, but inadvertently introduced a cryptographic weakness that undermines security.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is substantial for organizations using Apache Derby database systems, as it directly compromises the integrity of user authentication. Attackers who successfully crack password hashes can gain unauthorized access to database resources, potentially leading to data breaches, unauthorized data modification, or complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects both local and remote attack vectors, meaning that even systems with restricted network access could be compromised if an attacker gains local access to the system. The potential for password substitution attacks means that attackers could replace legitimate user credentials with their own, effectively gaining persistent access to database resources. This vulnerability particularly impacts environments where Derby is used for critical data storage, as the compromise of authentication mechanisms can lead to widespread data exposure and system integrity violations. Organizations may face regulatory compliance issues if sensitive data is accessed through this vulnerability, as it represents a failure to maintain adequate security controls over authentication mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-4269 should prioritize immediate upgrading to Apache Derby version 10.6.1.0 or later, which contains the necessary cryptographic fixes. Organizations should also implement additional authentication layers such as SSL/TLS encryption for database connections to protect against network-based attacks, and consider implementing account lockout mechanisms to prevent brute force attempts. Security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all systems running affected Derby versions and ensure proper patch management procedures are in place. The fix implemented in version 10.6.1.0 addresses the specific cryptographic transformation that was reducing the hash space, restoring proper entropy to the password hashing process. Organizations should also consider implementing stronger password policies and regular password rotation schedules to minimize the impact of any potential compromise. From an operational security perspective, this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of cryptographic review processes during software development and the need for thorough security testing of authentication mechanisms. The remediation approach should also include monitoring for suspicious authentication attempts and implementing intrusion detection systems to identify potential exploitation attempts against the vulnerable authentication system.