CVE-2017-14377 in RSA Authentication Agent for Web
Summary
by MITRE
EMC RSA Authentication Agent for Web: Apache Web Server version 8.0 and RSA Authentication Agent for Web: Apache Web Server version 8.0.1 prior to Build 618 have a security vulnerability that could potentially lead to authentication bypass.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/25/2021
The CVE-2017-14377 vulnerability affects EMC RSA Authentication Agent for Web components running on Apache web servers version 8.0 and 8.0.1 prior to build 618. This security flaw represents a critical authentication bypass vulnerability that undermines the core security mechanism of the RSA authentication system. The vulnerability exists within the web server integration component of the RSA Authentication Agent, specifically impacting how the system handles authentication requests and validation processes. The flaw allows attackers to circumvent the multi-factor authentication requirements that are fundamental to the RSA security architecture, potentially enabling unauthorized access to protected systems and data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of authentication tokens and session management within the Apache web server module. The flaw manifests when the RSA Authentication Agent fails to properly validate authentication requests, creating a condition where malicious actors can submit forged authentication data or exploit weaknesses in the token processing pipeline. This issue falls under the CWE-287 category of Improper Authentication, specifically addressing weak or missing authentication mechanisms. The vulnerability enables an attacker to bypass the standard RSA authentication flow by manipulating the authentication request parameters or exploiting race conditions in the authentication processing sequence.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-14377 extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it fundamentally compromises the security posture of organizations relying on RSA Authentication Agent for Web. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can gain access to sensitive systems without providing valid authentication credentials, potentially leading to data breaches, privilege escalation, and lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects organizations that depend on RSA's multi-factor authentication solution for protecting critical assets, making it particularly dangerous for financial institutions, government agencies, and enterprises handling sensitive data. This flaw directly impacts the CIA triad by compromising confidentiality and integrity, as unauthorized access can lead to data exposure and system manipulation. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 for Valid Accounts and T1531 for Account Access Removal, as it allows attackers to leverage compromised authentication mechanisms while potentially masking their activities.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including patching to the latest build version 618 or higher of the RSA Authentication Agent for Web, which resolves the authentication bypass vulnerability through improved token validation and session management. Network segmentation and additional monitoring should be implemented to detect unauthorized authentication attempts and unusual access patterns. Security teams must conduct thorough assessments of systems running vulnerable versions and implement compensating controls such as additional authentication layers, enhanced logging, and real-time monitoring of authentication events. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security software components and highlights the risks associated with legacy authentication systems that may not receive timely security updates, particularly in environments where RSA Authentication Agent for Web is deployed.