CVE-2009-10007 in Catalyst::Plugin::Authentication
Summary
by MITRE • 06/09/2026
Catalyst::Plugin::Authentication versions before 0.10_027 for Perl is susceptible to session fixation attacks.
Catalyst::Plugin::Authentication does not automatically change the session id after authentication. An attacker that obtains a session id cookie can use this to impersonate the victim.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/09/2026
The vulnerability in Catalyst::Plugin::Authentication versions prior to 0.10_027 represents a critical session management flaw that directly enables session fixation attacks. This Perl web application framework component fails to implement proper session regeneration following successful authentication events, creating a persistent security weakness that can be exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability stems from the absence of automatic session identifier rotation, which is a fundamental security control recommended by industry standards including the OWASP Top Ten and NIST guidelines for web application security.
The technical implementation flaw occurs when the authentication plugin processes user credentials and establishes a session without regenerating the session identifier. This allows an attacker who has already obtained a valid session cookie to maintain access to the victim's authenticated session. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be classified under CWE-384, which specifically addresses session fixation issues in web applications. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it requires minimal reconnaissance and can be executed through various means including network sniffing, cross-site scripting attacks, or direct cookie interception.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass potential data breaches, privilege escalation, and persistent unauthorized system access. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can maintain access to the victim's session indefinitely, potentially gaining access to sensitive data, performing unauthorized transactions, or using the compromised session to move laterally within the application environment. This weakness directly violates the principle of least privilege and can enable attackers to perform actions that require valid authentication, including administrative functions if the victim holds elevated privileges. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where session management is not properly monitored or where users maintain persistent sessions.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of session regeneration upon successful authentication, which aligns with the ATT&CK framework's mitigation recommendations for session management. Organizations should upgrade to Catalyst::Plugin::Authentication version 0.10_027 or later, which includes proper session id regeneration functionality. Additionally, implementing session timeout mechanisms, using secure cookie attributes such as HttpOnly and Secure flags, and monitoring for suspicious session activity can provide additional layers of protection. The fix should be accompanied by comprehensive security testing to ensure that no other session-related components within the application architecture are vulnerable to similar issues. Regular security assessments and adherence to secure coding practices, as recommended by the Open Web Application Security Project, should be maintained to prevent future occurrences of this type of session management flaw.