CVE-2006-4244 in SQL-Ledger
Summary
by MITRE
SQL-Ledger 2.4.4 through 2.6.17 authenticates users by verifying that the value of the sql-ledger-[username] cookie matches the value of the sessionid parameter, which allows remote attackers to gain access as any logged-in user by setting the cookie and the parameter to the same value.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/12/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-4244 affects SQL-Ledger versions 2.4.4 through 2.6.17 and represents a critical session management flaw that undermines the application's authentication mechanism. This issue stems from a flawed approach to user authentication where the system relies on a cookie value for verification rather than implementing proper session handling protocols. The vulnerability creates a scenario where an attacker can manipulate the authentication process by directly setting both the sql-ledger-username cookie and the sessionid parameter to identical values, effectively bypassing the normal authentication flow.
The technical implementation of this flaw demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of session security principles and represents a classic case of weak session management as classified under CWE-613. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and exploits the trust relationship between client and server by allowing an attacker to impersonate any logged-in user within the system. This occurs because the authentication verification process does not properly validate the session state or ensure that the cookie value was generated through legitimate authentication processes rather than being directly set by an attacker.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for organizations using SQL-Ledger as their accounting and invoicing solution. An attacker who can manipulate cookie values and session parameters gains full access to user accounts, potentially leading to unauthorized financial transactions, data modification, and complete system compromise. The impact extends beyond individual user accounts to potentially affect the entire organization's financial data integrity and operational security. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 which involves credential access through manipulation of authentication mechanisms.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires minimal technical skill and can be accomplished through simple HTTP request manipulation, making it particularly dangerous as it can be automated and scaled. The attack vector is accessible over the network and does not require special privileges or complex attack chains. Organizations using affected versions of SQL-Ledger should immediately implement mitigations including proper session management, secure cookie handling with HttpOnly and Secure flags, and the implementation of proper session regeneration after authentication. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following security best practices such as those outlined in OWASP Top Ten and the principle of least privilege in session management. This flaw underscores the necessity of proper input validation and authentication verification processes that ensure session integrity and prevent direct manipulation of authentication parameters.