Re: AW: [HACKERS] Solution to the pg_user passwd problem !?? (c)

[Marc]

> I don't think so...but I'rather have the obviuos "select * from
> pg_user" closed off, and the more obscure "copy pg_user to stdout" still
> there then have both wide open...its a half measure, but its better then
> no measure...

[Bruce]

> But it is not secure. Why have passwords then?

[Marc]

> passswords had to get in there at *some* point...they are there
> now, now we have to extend the security to the next level. Better to move
> forward 1 step at a time. If we remove the REVOKE altogether, the
> passwords are still there, but there is *0* security instead of 50%
> security...

Wrong. It's still *0* security, but with the illusion of working
security in the eyes of anyone who doesn't know better -- and you're
trying to keep them from knowing better. If you go this way, cases
*will* occur where people think their data secure, and then someone
gains access to it who shouldn't. Security by obscurity never was,
and never will be a good idea.

Leave wide open looking wide open, and document it. Say something
like "This release has a password field in the pg_user table, but it
isn't actually useful as a security measure. It's there because we
intend to use it in a secure manner in future. Meanwhile, a secure
installation of the current version can be achieved by ...".

-tih
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