Uninett mod_auth_mellon ECP Authentication Bypass Vulnerability [CVE-2019-3878]
CVE Number – CVE-2019-3878
A vulnerability in the mod_auth_mellon component of Uninett could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to bypass authentication restrictions on a targeted system.The vulnerability is due to improper Enhanced Client or Proxy (ECP) authentication operations by the affected software when Apache is configured as a reverse proxy. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by submitting a request containing malicious SAML 2.0 ECP headers to the targeted system. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to bypass authentication restrictions on the targeted system.Uninett has confirmed the vulnerability and released software updates.
Analysis
- To exploit this vulnerability, the attacker must have user-level access to the targeted system. This access requirement may reduce the likelihood of a successful exploit.
Safeguards
- Administrators are advised to apply the appropriate updates.Administrators are advised to allow only trusted users to have network access.Administrators are advised to run both firewall and antivirus applications to minimize the potential of inbound and outbound threats.Administrators may consider using IP-based access control lists (ACLs) to allow only trusted systems to access the affected systems.Administrators can help protect affected systems from external attacks by using a solid firewall strategy.Administrators are advised to monitor affected systems.
Vendor Announcements
- Uninett has released a security notice at the following link: [CVE-2019-3878] Authentication bypass when Apache is used as a reverse proxy
Fixed Software
- Uninett has released a software update at the following link: Version 0.14.2
Duncan is a technology professional with over 20 years experience of working in various IT roles. He has a interest in cyber security, and has a wide range of other skills in radio, electronics and telecommunications.