CVE-2021-42949 in HotelDruid Hotel Management Software
Summary
by MITRE • 09/16/2022
The component controlla_login function in HotelDruid Hotel Management Software v3.0.3 generates a predictable session token, allowing attackers to bypass authentication via bruteforce attacks.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/03/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-42949 resides within the controlla_login function of HotelDruid Hotel Management Software version 3.0.3, representing a critical authentication bypass flaw that directly impacts the software's security posture. This issue stems from the predictable nature of session tokens generated during the login process, creating a significant weakness that adversaries can exploit to gain unauthorized access to hotel management systems. The vulnerability specifically affects the authentication mechanism that should protect sensitive hotel operational data, guest information, and administrative functions.
The technical flaw manifests through the generation of session tokens that follow predictable patterns rather than utilizing cryptographically secure random number generation. When users attempt to log into the hotel management system, the controlla_login function creates session identifiers that can be easily guessed or derived through brute force methodologies. This predictable session token generation violates fundamental security principles and creates an attack surface where unauthorized parties can systematically test potential session tokens until they discover a valid one. The vulnerability essentially transforms what should be a secure authentication process into a guessable system, making it trivial for attackers to bypass the login mechanism entirely.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses severe risks to hotel management systems that rely on HotelDruid for their administrative operations. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can gain full administrative access to hotel reservation systems, guest databases, pricing configurations, and financial transaction records. The implications extend beyond simple unauthorized access, as compromised systems may lead to data breaches, financial fraud, guest privacy violations, and potential regulatory compliance violations under data protection laws such as gdpr or ccpa. The predictability of session tokens means that attackers can maintain persistent access to systems without detection, as their activities would appear to be legitimate administrative operations.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-330 use of weak entropy in random number generation, which specifically addresses the use of predictable or insufficiently random values in security contexts. This weakness directly enables the attack patterns described in the ATT&CK framework under T1110 credential access techniques, particularly focusing on brute force and password spraying methods. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability demonstrates poor implementation of session management protocols, where the system fails to properly implement cryptographic best practices for session token generation. Organizations using HotelDruid version 3.0.3 should immediately implement mitigations including patching to the latest software version, implementing additional authentication layers, and monitoring for suspicious login patterns. The recommended approach involves strengthening session token generation to utilize cryptographically secure random number generators and implementing rate limiting mechanisms to prevent brute force attacks from succeeding. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing multi-factor authentication and regular security audits to identify similar vulnerabilities in their hospitality management systems and ensure compliance with industry security standards.