CVE-2007-6342 in Apache Authcas
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the David Castro AuthCAS module (AuthCAS.pm) 0.4 for the Apache HTTP Server allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the SESSION_COOKIE_NAME (session ID) in a cookie.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/06/2017
The CVE-2007-6342 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the AuthCAS module version 0.4 for Apache HTTP Server, specifically targeting the David Castro implementation. This vulnerability exists in the authentication framework that handles session management through cookie-based authentication mechanisms. The flaw manifests when the system processes the SESSION_COOKIE_NAME parameter, which serves as the session identifier within the cookie structure, allowing malicious actors to manipulate this value and inject arbitrary sql commands into the underlying database queries. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the authentication layer where session management occurs, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to compromise user sessions and escalate privileges.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the session cookie that contains the SESSION_COOKIE_NAME parameter. When the AuthCAS module processes this cookie value, it fails to properly sanitize or escape the input before incorporating it into sql queries that interact with the backend database. This lack of input validation creates an environment where attackers can inject malicious sql payloads directly through the session identifier cookie. The vulnerability specifically affects the AuthCAS.pm module version 0.4, indicating that this was a targeted flaw within a specific implementation rather than a broader apache http server issue. The flaw falls under the common weakness enumeration category of CWE-89 sql injection, which is classified as a critical security vulnerability that allows attackers to execute unauthorized database commands.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands against the database that supports the authentication system, potentially leading to complete database compromise. Attackers can leverage this weakness to extract sensitive user information, modify authentication records, or even escalate their privileges within the system. The impact extends beyond simple data theft as the vulnerability allows for session hijacking, where attackers can impersonate legitimate users by manipulating session identifiers. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where the authentication system serves as a gateway to other sensitive applications or databases, as it provides an entry point that can be used to access additional system resources. The vulnerability operates at the application layer within the apache http server framework, making it accessible to anyone who can send crafted http requests with manipulated cookies.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-6342 primarily focus on input validation and proper parameter sanitization within the AuthCAS module implementation. Organizations should immediately upgrade to a patched version of the AuthCAS module that properly escapes or sanitizes cookie input before processing. The implementation should incorporate proper sql parameterization techniques to prevent injection attacks, ensuring that user-supplied session identifiers are treated as literal values rather than executable code. Additionally, network segmentation and monitoring should be implemented to detect unusual cookie manipulation patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security controls should include web application firewalls that can detect and block sql injection attempts targeting session cookies, as well as regular security audits of authentication modules. The vulnerability aligns with attack patterns documented in the attack tree framework where session management flaws are categorized as high-value targets for attackers seeking persistent access to systems. Organizations should also implement proper access controls and database permissions to limit the damage that could result from successful exploitation, ensuring that database accounts used by the authentication module have minimal required privileges.