CVE-2017-0356 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

An authentication bypass vulnerability was discovered in ikiwiki before version 3.20170111, allowing attackers to bypass authentication through repeated parameters.

Understanding CVE-2017-0356

This CVE involves an issue in ikiwiki that resembles CVE-2016-9646, affecting versions before 3.20170111.

What is CVE-2017-0356?

This vulnerability in ikiwiki's passwordauth plugin leverages CGI::FormBuilder, enabling attackers to bypass authentication by exploiting repeated parameters.

The Impact of CVE-2017-0356

The vulnerability poses a significant risk as it allows unauthorized users to bypass authentication controls, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-0356

The technical aspects of the CVE-2017-0356 vulnerability are as follows:

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in ikiwiki before version 3.20170111, specifically in the passwordauth plugin's use of CGI::FormBuilder, permits attackers to bypass authentication through repeated parameters.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: ikiwiki
Vendor: ikiwiki
Versions Affected: Before 3.20170111

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by utilizing repeated parameters in the passwordauth plugin, leveraging CGI::FormBuilder to bypass authentication mechanisms.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2017-0356, consider the following mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update ikiwiki to version 3.20170111 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor and restrict access to sensitive areas of the application.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong authentication mechanisms to prevent bypass attempts.
Regularly review and update security configurations to address emerging threats.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and promptly apply patches released by ikiwiki to address known vulnerabilities.