CVE-2018-10966 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability has been found in GamerPolls version 0.4.6, allowing attackers to manipulate session cookies and potentially take over user accounts.

Understanding CVE-2018-10966

This CVE involves a security flaw in GamerPolls version 0.4.6 that enables attackers to modify session cookies to gain unauthorized access to user accounts.

What is CVE-2018-10966?

The vulnerability in GamerPolls version 0.4.6 allows attackers to alter the content of session cookies in Passport.js, replacing it with the desired account's ID number. By exploiting the pre-defined secret, attackers can then re-sign the modified cookie.

The Impact of CVE-2018-10966

The exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to user accounts, potentially compromising sensitive information and user privacy.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-10966

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in GamerPolls version 0.4.6 allows attackers to manipulate session cookies in Passport.js, enabling them to take over user accounts by modifying and resigning the cookies.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Version: 0.4.6
Files Vulnerable: config/environments/all.js and config/initializers/02_passport.js

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by altering the content of session cookies in Passport.js, replacing it with the desired account's ID number, and re-signing the cookie using the predefined secret.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-10966 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update GamerPolls to the latest version to patch the vulnerability.
Monitor and review session cookie contents for any unauthorized modifications.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.
Regularly audit and review session management processes to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by GamerPolls promptly to mitigate the vulnerability and enhance system security.