CVE-2024-45980 in MEANStore
Summary
by MITRE • 09/26/2024
A host header injection vulnerability in MEANStore 1.0 allows attackers to obtain the password reset token via user interaction with a crafted password reset link. This allows attackers to arbitrarily reset other users' passwords and compromise their accounts.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/01/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-45980 represents a critical host header injection flaw within the MEANStore 1.0 web application framework. This security weakness resides in the application's handling of HTTP host headers during password reset operations, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate the application's behavior and compromise user accounts. The vulnerability specifically affects the password reset functionality, where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize host header values, allowing attackers to inject malicious host information that can be exploited during the reset process.
The technical implementation of this flaw stems from improper input validation within the application's authentication flow. When users request password resets, the system generates reset tokens and constructs reset links using host header information without adequate sanitization measures. This creates an environment where attackers can craft malicious password reset links that, when clicked by victims, redirect the application to attacker-controlled domains while still providing valid reset tokens. The vulnerability maps directly to CWE-614, which describes insecure cookies and session management issues, and also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for spearphishing via email, as the malicious links can be delivered through social engineering campaigns.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple account compromise, as it enables attackers to systematically reset passwords for any user account within the application's scope. This creates a persistent threat vector where attackers can maintain long-term access to compromised accounts, potentially leading to data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and further network infiltration. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires only user interaction with a crafted link, making it difficult to detect and prevent through traditional security measures. Attackers can leverage this weakness to conduct targeted attacks against specific users or perform mass account takeover campaigns.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-45980 must address the root cause through proper input validation and secure coding practices. Organizations should implement strict host header validation mechanisms that verify the authenticity of host information before processing password reset requests. The application should enforce the use of a predefined, trusted host value rather than accepting user-supplied host headers during authentication flows. Additionally, implementing proper session management controls, including secure cookie attributes and session token regeneration, can help reduce the attack surface. Organizations should also consider implementing rate limiting on password reset requests and monitoring for unusual patterns in reset activity. The fix should align with security standards such as OWASP Top Ten A05:2021 and NIST SP 800-53 requirements for secure authentication and session management to ensure comprehensive protection against similar vulnerabilities.