CVE-2018-13014 in SoftControl SysWatch
Summary
by MITRE
Storing password in recoverable format in safensec.com (SysWatch service) in SAFE'N'SEC SoftControl/SafenSoft SysWatch, SoftControl/SafenSoft TPSecure, and SoftControl/SafenSoft Enterprise Suite before 4.4.2 allows the local attacker to restore the SysWatch password from the settings database and modify program settings.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/23/2020
The vulnerability described in CVE-2018-13014 represents a critical security flaw in the SAFE'N'SEC SysWatch service across multiple product lines including SoftControl/SafenSoft SysWatch, TPSecure, and Enterprise Suite versions prior to 4.4.2. This issue stems from improper credential handling where passwords are stored in a recoverable format within the settings database, creating a significant attack surface for local adversaries who can exploit this weakness to gain unauthorized access to system configurations and potentially escalate their privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability manifests through the insecure storage of authentication credentials within the application's database structure. When the SysWatch service initializes, it stores password information in a format that can be easily recovered and reconstructed by local attackers who possess access to the system's file system or database layers. This practice violates fundamental security principles and aligns with CWE-312, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper data storage mechanisms. The flaw specifically affects the credential management component of the software, where authentication tokens are not adequately protected through proper encryption or obfuscation techniques.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability enables local attackers to restore SysWatch passwords from the settings database, which provides them with unauthorized access to modify program settings and potentially compromise the integrity of the entire security infrastructure. The impact extends beyond simple credential theft as attackers can manipulate system configurations to disable security measures, create backdoors, or establish persistent access points. This vulnerability directly relates to ATT&CK technique T1555.003, which covers credential access through stored credentials, and represents a significant risk to organizations relying on these security products for protection against external threats.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires minimal technical expertise and can be accomplished by local attackers with basic system access, making it particularly dangerous in environments where physical security controls are inadequate. Organizations using affected versions of SAFE'N'SEC products face the risk of complete system compromise, as the restored passwords can provide access to critical system functions and potentially enable attackers to bypass other security controls. The vulnerability demonstrates poor security architecture practices where sensitive data is not properly protected during storage, violating security best practices outlined in various compliance frameworks including ISO 27001 and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigation strategies including upgrading to SAFE'N'SEC versions 4.4.2 or later, which address this vulnerability through proper credential encryption mechanisms. Additionally, system administrators should conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify any potential exploitation attempts and implement monitoring controls to detect unauthorized access to system databases. The remediation process should include reviewing system access controls, implementing proper database encryption, and ensuring that all credential storage mechanisms follow established security standards. This vulnerability highlights the critical importance of secure credential management and proper data protection practices in security software implementations.