“passwd” file stores plain text passwords - how to p rotect it

Hello,

Since the “passwd” file stores plain text passwords, it is vulnerable for the SVN users.
We have not compiled the subversion 1.14.2 with “cyrus SASL” library and hence cannot use SASL authentication mechanisms.

Could you please suggest any other alternative to secure the passwd file ?

Thanks & Regards,
Sriharsha