CVE-2015-5959 in Froxlor
Summary
by MITRE
Froxlor before 0.9.33.2 with the default configuration/setup might allow remote attackers to obtain the database password by reading /logs/sql-error.log.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2022
The vulnerability described in CVE-2015-5959 represents a critical information disclosure flaw in the Froxlor web hosting control panel software. This issue affects versions prior to 0.9.33.2 and stems from improper configuration handling during the default installation process. The vulnerability specifically relates to the logging mechanism where database credentials are inadvertently exposed in plaintext within the sql-error.log file, creating a significant security risk for systems running the affected software.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through the default configuration setup of Froxlor, where the application fails to properly sanitize or restrict access to sensitive log files containing database authentication information. When database errors occur during operation, the system writes error messages to the /logs/sql-error.log file, which includes the database password in cleartext format. This misconfiguration allows remote attackers to access this log file through web-based means, effectively obtaining database credentials without requiring authentication or exploitation of other attack vectors. The flaw directly maps to CWE-200, which covers information exposure, and specifically relates to CWE-532, which addresses information exposure through log files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as the exposed database password can be used to gain unauthorized access to backend databases, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage these credentials to perform data manipulation, data exfiltration, or even escalate privileges within the hosting environment. The vulnerability affects the principle of least privilege and demonstrates poor security practices in application logging and configuration management. Systems using Froxlor with default settings become particularly vulnerable because the software does not implement proper access controls or credential sanitization for log files, making it an attractive target for automated scanning tools that specifically look for such exposures.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability involve multiple layers of defense including immediate software updates to version 0.9.33.2 or later, which addresses the improper log file handling. Administrators should implement proper file access controls on the logs directory and ensure that log files are not accessible through web root directories. The recommended approach includes configuring proper permissions on the /logs directory to prevent web server access, implementing log rotation with proper cleanup procedures, and ensuring that sensitive information is never logged in plaintext format. Additionally, implementing the principle of least privilege for log file access and establishing proper monitoring for unauthorized access attempts to sensitive files can significantly reduce the risk. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access control lists to limit potential attack surface and prevent lateral movement within their infrastructure. This vulnerability highlights the importance of secure configuration management and proper application hardening practices as outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework's configuration management and privilege escalation domains.