CVE-2020-14423 in Convos
Summary
by MITRE
Convos before 4.20 does not properly generate a random secret in Core/Settings.pm and Util.pm. This leads to a predictable CONVOS_LOCAL_SECRET value, affecting password resets and invitations.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/19/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-14423 affects Convos versions prior to 4.20 and stems from improper random secret generation within the Core/Settings.pm and Util.pm modules. This weakness creates a predictable CONVOS_LOCAL_SECRET value that fundamentally undermines the security of critical authentication mechanisms. The flaw resides in the cryptographic implementation where the application fails to generate sufficiently random values for its local secret, creating a deterministic pattern that adversaries can potentially exploit. This predictable secret directly impacts the system's ability to securely handle password reset requests and invitation processes, as these functions rely on the secret for validation and authentication purposes.
The technical implementation flaw represents a weakness in random number generation practices that aligns with CWE-330, which addresses insufficient entropy in random number generation. When an application generates predictable secrets, it creates a vector for various attack vectors including session hijacking, unauthorized access to user accounts, and manipulation of authentication workflows. The CONVOS_LOCAL_SECRET serves as a cryptographic key for validating password reset tokens and invitation links, making its predictability particularly dangerous. Attackers who can determine this secret can forge valid reset tokens and invitations, effectively bypassing the intended security controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential compromise to encompass broader system integrity issues. When password reset functionality becomes predictable, unauthorized users can reset passwords for arbitrary accounts, leading to account takeovers and potential data breaches. Similarly, invitation mechanisms become compromised when the secret allows attackers to create valid invitation links that grant access to restricted resources. This vulnerability affects the core authentication infrastructure of the Convos application, potentially enabling lateral movement within the system and unauthorized access to user communications and data.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-14423 require immediate patching to version 4.20 or later where proper random secret generation has been implemented. Organizations should also conduct thorough security assessments of their Convos installations to identify any potential exploitation that may have occurred before patching. The implementation of proper cryptographic random number generation should follow established security practices including the use of cryptographically secure random number generators and adequate entropy sources. Additionally, organizations should monitor for any suspicious authentication activities or unauthorized access attempts that might indicate exploitation of this vulnerability. Security controls should include regular vulnerability scanning and penetration testing to identify similar weaknesses in other applications and systems within the infrastructure, aligning with the ATT&CK framework's credential access and privilege escalation techniques.