CVE-2022-23348 in BigAnt Server
Summary
by MITRE • 03/22/2022
BigAnt Software BigAnt Server v5.6.06 was discovered to utilize weak password hashes.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/23/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-23348 affects BigAnt Software BigAnt Server version 5.6.06 and stems from the software's implementation of weak password hashing mechanisms. This represents a critical security flaw that undermines the fundamental authentication security model of the application. The weakness lies in the cryptographic algorithms and implementation practices used to store user credentials, making the system susceptible to various attack vectors that can compromise user accounts and potentially lead to unauthorized access to the entire server infrastructure.
The technical flaw manifests through the use of insufficiently secure hashing algorithms or improper implementation of password storage mechanisms. Weak password hashes typically employ algorithms that are either outdated, computationally weak, or lack proper salting mechanisms that would normally prevent rainbow table attacks and hash cracking attempts. This vulnerability falls under the broader category of weak credential storage as defined by CWE-521 which specifically addresses weak password requirements and storage practices. The implementation likely uses algorithms such as MD5 or SHA1 without proper salting or employs outdated password hashing approaches that do not meet modern security standards for credential protection.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential compromise to potentially enable full system infiltration and persistent access. Attackers who successfully crack weak password hashes can gain unauthorized access to user accounts, potentially escalating privileges through compromised administrative credentials. This vulnerability creates opportunities for attackers to establish backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks within the network. The threat landscape is further complicated by the fact that many organizations rely on password-based authentication as their primary security control, making weak password hashing particularly dangerous. This weakness directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1110.003 which focuses on credential stuffing and password cracking attacks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate attention and comprehensive remediation approaches. Organizations should prioritize updating to the latest version of BigAnt Server where the password hashing implementation has been properly strengthened. System administrators must implement proper password policies including minimum length requirements, complexity rules, and regular password rotation schedules. The implementation should utilize strong cryptographic hashing algorithms such as bcrypt, scrypt, or Argon2 with proper salt generation and sufficient computational cost parameters. Additionally, multi-factor authentication should be enabled where possible to add additional layers of security beyond password-based authentication. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other systems and applications that may be using comparable password storage mechanisms.