CVE-2024-10158 in Boat Booking System
Summary
by MITRE • 10/20/2024
A vulnerability classified as problematic has been found in PHPGurukul Boat Booking System 1.0. Affected is the function session_start. The manipulation leads to session fixiation. It is possible to launch the attack remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/03/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-10158 represents a critical session management flaw within the PHPGurukul Boat Booking System version 1.0. This issue resides in the session_start function which is fundamental to web application authentication and user state management. The vulnerability has been classified as problematic due to its potential for remote exploitation and the serious security implications it presents to users of this booking system. The flaw enables attackers to perform session fixation attacks, which can compromise user sessions and potentially lead to unauthorized access to sensitive booking information and user accounts.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper session handling within the application's authentication mechanism. When the session_start function is invoked without proper session regeneration or validation, it allows attackers to manipulate session identifiers. This creates an environment where an attacker can establish a valid session ID before a user authenticates, then trick the user into using that same session ID, effectively hijacking their session. The attack vector is remote, meaning no local access is required, and the vulnerability can be exploited through standard web browser interactions. The session fixation flaw specifically relates to CWE-384, which addresses session management weaknesses where applications fail to properly handle session identifiers.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple authentication bypasses, potentially exposing sensitive user data including booking records, personal information, and payment details within the boat booking system. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to impersonate legitimate users, modify bookings, access restricted administrative functions, or conduct unauthorized transactions. The public disclosure of the exploit increases the risk level significantly as it provides attackers with ready-made tools and techniques to target vulnerable installations. Organizations using this system face potential regulatory compliance issues and reputational damage if user data is compromised through such attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-10158 must focus on implementing proper session management practices and following established security frameworks. Organizations should immediately update to the latest version of PHPGurukul Boat Booking System where this vulnerability has been patched. The recommended approach involves implementing session regeneration upon successful authentication, which aligns with the principles outlined in the OWASP Session Management Cheat Sheet and the NIST Special Publication 800-116 guidelines for session management. Additionally, implementing secure session cookie attributes such as HttpOnly, Secure, and SameSite flags can help prevent session hijacking attempts. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be deployed to monitor for exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in the application's codebase, with particular attention to session handling functions and authentication mechanisms. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following the ATT&CK framework's T1548.003 technique for privilege escalation through session management weaknesses, ensuring comprehensive protection against such attack vectors.