CVE-2013-0148 in c-treeACE
Summary
by MITRE
The Data Camouflage (aka Faircom Standard Encryption) algorithm in Faircom c-treeACE does not ensure that a decryption key is needed for accessing database contents, which allows context-dependent attackers to read cleartext database records by copying a database to another system that has a certain default configuration.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/12/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2013-0148 represents a critical weakness in the Faircom c-treeACE database system's encryption implementation, specifically within its Data Camouflage feature also known as Faircom Standard Encryption. This flaw exists in the cryptographic design of the database engine's data protection mechanisms, creating a scenario where sensitive information can be accessed without proper authentication or decryption keys. The vulnerability manifests when database files are transferred between systems with specific default configurations, bypassing the intended security controls that should protect database contents from unauthorized access.
The technical flaw stems from the improper implementation of the Data Camouflage algorithm which fails to enforce mandatory decryption key requirements for database access. This weakness creates a context-dependent attack vector where an attacker can exploit the default configuration settings of the target system to gain access to cleartext database records. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the database engine level, affecting the fundamental security model of how data is protected and accessed within the Faircom c-treeACE environment. The algorithm's design does not adequately verify the presence of proper cryptographic keys before allowing data retrieval operations, leading to potential exposure of sensitive information.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized data access, as it represents a fundamental failure in the cryptographic protection mechanisms of the database system. Attackers can leverage this weakness by copying database files to systems configured with default settings that do not require explicit decryption keys, thereby bypassing the security controls that should prevent unauthorized access to sensitive records. This vulnerability affects organizations that rely on Faircom c-treeACE for database management, potentially exposing confidential information including personal data, financial records, or proprietary business information. The attack requires minimal technical expertise and can be executed through simple file transfer operations, making it particularly dangerous in environments where database portability is common.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including disabling the Data Camouflage feature when it is not required, ensuring that database systems are properly configured with appropriate cryptographic key management practices, and conducting thorough audits of database file transfers between systems. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-310, which addresses cryptographic weaknesses in data protection mechanisms, and represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege in information security. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving credential access and privilege escalation through weak cryptographic implementations. System administrators should also consider implementing additional monitoring and access controls around database file operations to detect unauthorized transfers or access attempts that could exploit this weakness. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of proper cryptographic implementation and key management in database security systems, particularly when dealing with sensitive data that requires robust protection mechanisms.