CVE-2022-38168 in Scopia Pathfinder 10
Summary
by MITRE • 11/04/2022
** UNSUPPORTED WHEN ASSIGNED ** Broken Access Control in User Authentication in Avaya Scopia Pathfinder 10 and 20 PTS version 8.3.7.0.4 allows remote unauthenticated attackers to bypass the login page, access sensitive information, and reset user passwords via URL modification.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-38168 represents a critical broken access control flaw within the Avaya Scopia Pathfinder 10 and 20 PTS version 8.3.7.0.4 authentication system. This issue stems from insufficient input validation and improper access control mechanisms that allow remote attackers to manipulate URL parameters and bypass the standard login authentication process. The flaw specifically affects the user authentication framework where the system fails to properly verify user credentials before granting access to protected resources, creating a pathway for unauthorized individuals to gain system access without legitimate authentication.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic lack of proper session management and authorization checks within the application's web interface. Attackers can exploit this weakness by modifying URL parameters to directly access administrative functions and sensitive data sections that should only be accessible to authenticated users with appropriate privileges. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-285, which addresses improper authorization within software applications, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078.004 for valid accounts using component software. The flaw essentially removes the authentication barrier entirely, allowing unauthenticated access to user management functions including password reset capabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass potential data breaches and system compromise. Remote attackers can exploit this weakness to reset user passwords, effectively taking control of user accounts and potentially escalating privileges to administrative levels. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it affects the core authentication mechanism of the system, enabling attackers to manipulate user accounts and access sensitive information that may include personal data, system configurations, or communication records. This vulnerability undermines the fundamental security posture of the Avaya Scopia Pathfinder system, potentially allowing for persistent unauthorized access and data exfiltration.
Organizations utilizing affected Avaya Scopia Pathfinder versions should immediately implement mitigations including applying available security patches from Avaya, implementing network segmentation to restrict access to the vulnerable system, and conducting comprehensive security assessments of the authentication framework. The recommended approach includes strengthening URL parameter validation, implementing proper session management protocols, and ensuring that all access control decisions are made server-side rather than relying on client-side modifications. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual access patterns and unauthorized password reset attempts. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing multi-factor authentication mechanisms and regularly reviewing access control policies to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other components of their security infrastructure.