CVE-2014-4692 in pfSense
Summary
by MITRE
pfSense before 2.1.4, when HTTP is used, does not include the HTTPOnly flag in a Set-Cookie header for the session cookie, which makes it easier for remote attackers to obtain potentially sensitive information via script access to this cookie.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/11/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-4692 affects pfSense versions prior to 2.1.4 and represents a critical security flaw in web application session management. This issue specifically impacts the configuration of HTTP cookies used for maintaining user sessions within the pfSense web interface. The vulnerability arises from the absence of the HTTPOnly flag in Set-Cookie headers, which creates a significant security risk for web applications that rely on cookie-based authentication mechanisms. The affected system operates as a network firewall and router management platform, making it a prime target for attackers seeking unauthorized access to network infrastructure.
The technical flaw stems from improper cookie configuration where the session cookie lacks the HTTPOnly attribute that should prevent client-side script access to the cookie value. This omission allows malicious scripts to access session cookies through document.cookie properties, potentially enabling session hijacking attacks. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous when HTTP is used instead of HTTPS, as it removes the additional layer of encryption that would otherwise protect cookie data during transmission. The absence of the HTTPOnly flag creates a direct pathway for cross-site scripting attacks to escalate privileges and compromise user sessions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it enables attackers to hijack active user sessions and gain unauthorized administrative access to pfSense firewalls. This compromise can lead to complete network infiltration, as pfSense administrators often possess extensive privileges over network security policies and configurations. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands, modify firewall rules, redirect network traffic, and establish persistent access points within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects not only individual user sessions but also the overall security posture of organizations relying on pfSense for network protection.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-4692 primarily involve updating pfSense installations to version 2.1.4 or later, which implements proper cookie security headers including the HTTPOnly flag. Organizations should also enforce mandatory HTTPS usage for all web interfaces to ensure encryption of cookie data during transmission. Additional protective measures include implementing proper input validation, regularly monitoring for unauthorized access attempts, and conducting security audits of web application configurations. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-1004 which addresses insecure cookie attributes, and corresponds to attack techniques in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under credential access and privilege escalation categories. Network administrators should also consider implementing additional security controls such as multi-factor authentication and regular security patch management to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in other components of their network infrastructure.