CVE-2010-0217 in Chat Server
Summary
by MITRE
Zeacom Chat Server before 5.1 uses too short a random string for the JSESSIONID value, which makes it easier for remote attackers to hijack sessions or cause a denial of service (Chat Server crash or Tomcat daemon crash) via a brute-force attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/15/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2010-0217 affects the Zeacom Chat Server version 5.1 and earlier, specifically targeting the session management mechanism through the JSESSIONID value. This weakness stems from the implementation of insufficient entropy in the random string generation process used for session identifiers, creating a significant security risk for the affected system. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to exploit the predictability of session tokens through brute-force techniques, potentially leading to unauthorized access or service disruption.
The technical flaw resides in the cryptographic strength of the random number generator used to create JSESSIONID values within the Zeacom Chat Server. When session identifiers lack sufficient entropy, they become vulnerable to brute-force attacks where attackers can systematically guess valid session tokens. This weakness directly relates to CWE-330, which addresses the use of insufficiently random values in security-critical contexts, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 for credential access through session hijacking. The implementation fails to utilize cryptographically secure random number generation methods, making session tokens predictable and exploitable.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple session hijacking to include potential denial of service conditions within the affected environment. Remote attackers can leverage the predictable session identifiers to either take control of active user sessions or deliberately target the application's session management system to cause crashes in both the Chat Server and the underlying Tomcat daemon. This dual threat creates a scenario where attackers can either gain unauthorized access to chat sessions or disrupt service availability, depending on their objectives and the specific implementation details of the exploitation attempt.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of proper session management practices including the use of cryptographically secure random number generators for session identifier creation. Organizations should upgrade to Zeacom Chat Server version 5.1 or later, which addresses the insufficient entropy issue through improved random string generation. Additionally, implementing session timeout mechanisms, using secure session cookie attributes such as HttpOnly and Secure flags, and deploying proper monitoring for suspicious session activity can help reduce the attack surface. The remediation process should also include reviewing and strengthening the overall session management framework to prevent similar weaknesses in other components of the application infrastructure, aligning with industry best practices for session security and the principles outlined in NIST SP 800-63 for digital identity management.