MPSB 04-05 Potential Risk in Dreamweaver Remote Database Connectivity
Originally posted: April 2, 2004
Last updated: April 2, 2004
Summary
Dreamweaver's remote database connectivity for testing dynamic database-driven websites installs scripts that may reveal DSNs to outside attackers. A sophisticated attacker may also be able to use these scripts to send SQL commands to the server and gain control of the database server.
Solution
Customers should not define a database connection using the driver on a testing server accessible to the public. To prevent unauthorized access to the database, password-protect the database. If a database connection has been defined, use Dreamweaver's Remove Connection Scripts menu command to remove the files that expose the database. This issue is described in greater detail in Security implications of remote database connectivity (TechNote 19214).
Severity Rating
Macromedia categorizes this issue as a critical update and recommends affected users immediately remove the connection scripts from publicly accessible servers.
Affected Software Versions
- Dreamweaver MX 2004 (all versions)
- Dreamweaver MX (all versions)
- Dreamweaver UltraDev 4 (all versions)
Details
When you specify "Using Driver On Testing Server" or "Using DSN on Testing Server" in the database connections dialog box, Dreamweaver automatically uploads a script file to the testing server which allows Dreamweaver to manipulate the remote database driver via the HTTP protocol. This allows Dreamweaver to get the database information it needs in order to help the user create their site. However, this file does make it possible to see the data source names (DSNs) defined on the system. If the DSNs and databases are not password protected, the script also enables an attacker to issue SQL commands to the database.
Acknowledgements
Macromedia would like to thank David Litchfield of Next Generation Security Software Limited for reporting this vulnerability and for working with us to help protect our customers' security.
Revisions
April 2, 2004, Bulletin first created.
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