CVE-2012-4381 in MediaWiki
Summary
by MITRE
MediaWiki before 1.18.5, and 1.19.x before 1.19.2 saves passwords in the local database, (1) which could make it easier for context-dependent attackers to obtain cleartext passwords via a brute-force attack or, (2) when an authentication plugin returns a false in the strict function, could allow remote attackers to use old passwords for non-existing accounts in an external authentication system via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/12/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-4381 affects MediaWiki versions prior to 1.18.5 and 1.19.x versions before 1.19.2, representing a significant security flaw in the authentication and password handling mechanisms of this widely-used wiki platform. This issue stems from the improper storage of passwords in cleartext within the local database, creating multiple attack vectors that can be exploited by context-dependent adversaries. The vulnerability manifests in two distinct scenarios that compound the security risks faced by MediaWiki installations, particularly those utilizing external authentication systems.
The primary technical flaw involves MediaWiki's password storage methodology where cleartext passwords are persistently saved in the local database without proper cryptographic protection. This represents a violation of fundamental security principles and aligns with CWE-256, which addresses the storage of passwords without proper protection mechanisms. When passwords are stored in cleartext, they become immediately accessible to any attacker with database access or those who can exploit the brute-force attack vectors. This vulnerability specifically enables attackers to conduct systematic password guessing attempts against the stored credentials, significantly reducing the time and effort required to compromise user accounts.
The second aspect of this vulnerability becomes particularly dangerous when MediaWiki operates in conjunction with external authentication plugins. When an authentication plugin returns a false value in its strict function, the system allows remote attackers to leverage old passwords for non-existing accounts within the external authentication system. This scenario creates a privilege escalation pathway where attackers can exploit the system's handling of authentication failures and password validation. The unspecified vectors mentioned in the description suggest that attackers can potentially bypass proper authentication mechanisms through clever manipulation of account states and password validation processes. This behavior aligns with ATT&CK technique T1110.003, which covers credential stuffing attacks, and represents a sophisticated method of account takeover that can be particularly damaging in environments where external authentication systems are critical.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-4381 extends beyond simple credential theft, as it can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, modification of content, and potential compromise of entire wiki installations. Organizations relying on MediaWiki for collaborative platforms, documentation systems, or internal knowledge bases face significant risk when these vulnerable versions are deployed. The vulnerability particularly affects installations that depend on external authentication systems, as it creates a scenario where attackers can exploit the gap between local password storage and external authentication validation. This weakness can be especially problematic in enterprise environments where wiki systems serve as central repositories for sensitive business information, development documentation, or confidential communications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-4381 primarily involve upgrading to patched versions of MediaWiki, specifically versions 1.18.5 or 1.19.2 and later. System administrators should also implement additional security controls such as enforcing strong password policies, implementing account lockout mechanisms, and monitoring for suspicious authentication attempts. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of proper password storage practices and the need for robust authentication system design. Organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments of their MediaWiki installations, review authentication plugin configurations, and ensure that password storage mechanisms comply with established security standards. Additionally, implementing network-level protections such as intrusion detection systems and access controls can help reduce the attack surface and limit the potential impact of exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of timely patch management and the necessity of maintaining secure coding practices in authentication systems to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future.