CVE-2015-8378 in KeePassX
Summary
by MITRE
In KeePassX before 0.4.4, a cleartext copy of password data is created upon a cancel of an XML export action. This allows context-dependent attackers to obtain sensitive information by reading the .xml dotfile.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/28/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-8378 affects KeePassX versions prior to 0.4.4, representing a critical security flaw in password management software that exposes sensitive authentication data. This issue manifests during the XML export process where the application creates a cleartext copy of password data even when the user cancels the export operation. The flaw exists in the application's handling of temporary file creation and memory management during export workflows, creating a window of opportunity for attackers to access sensitive information. The vulnerability demonstrates poor secure coding practices in temporary data handling and demonstrates how seemingly benign user actions can create persistent security risks. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of insecure temporary file handling as classified by CWE-377, where applications create insecure temporary files that may contain sensitive information. The security implications extend beyond simple data exposure, as the vulnerability allows attackers to obtain credentials through the manipulation of temporary files that persist on the system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires context-dependent conditions where an attacker must have access to the victim's system and be able to monitor or access temporary files created during the application's operation. When a user initiates an XML export in KeePassX but cancels the operation, the application still creates a temporary XML file containing the cleartext password data in a dotfile format. These dotfiles are typically hidden system files that may not be immediately visible to users but can be accessed through various system commands or file browsing tools. The vulnerability represents a failure in proper resource cleanup and temporary file management, creating a persistent threat vector that can be exploited by attackers with local system access. The flaw demonstrates how applications may not properly implement secure deletion or cleanup procedures for temporary data, leaving sensitive information accessible to unauthorized parties.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-8378 extends beyond immediate credential theft, as it represents a fundamental weakness in how the password manager handles sensitive data during user interactions. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to obtain authentication credentials for multiple accounts stored within the KeePassX database, potentially leading to unauthorized access to various online services, applications, and systems. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited without requiring network access or complex attack vectors, as the sensitive data is stored locally in temporary files that can be accessed through standard file system operations. This makes the attack surface relatively broad and accessible to various threat actors, including those with basic system access privileges. The vulnerability also demonstrates how password management tools can inadvertently create security risks when they fail to properly secure sensitive information during application operations, potentially undermining the entire purpose of using such tools for credential protection.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-8378 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term secure coding practices. The primary solution involves upgrading to KeePassX version 0.4.4 or later, which includes proper temporary file handling and cleanup procedures that prevent cleartext password data from being stored in temporary files. Organizations should also implement regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other password management tools and applications. System administrators should monitor for the presence of temporary files containing sensitive data and implement proper file system permissions to limit access to temporary directories. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of running outdated software and the importance of keeping password management applications updated. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Guidelines, particularly regarding temporary file management and proper resource cleanup. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management systems to ensure timely updates of security-critical applications, as this vulnerability could be exploited by threat actors who scan for outdated software versions. The incident underscores the need for comprehensive application security testing, including security code reviews and penetration testing, to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities before they can be exploited in real-world scenarios.