CVE-2018-11386 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability was identified in the HttpFoundation component of Symfony versions 2.7.x to 2.7.48, 2.8.x to 2.8.41, 3.3.x to 3.3.17, 3.4.x to 3.4.11, and 4.0.x to 4.0.11. This vulnerability affects the PDOSessionHandler class, allowing for a denial of service attack on Symfony applications.

Understanding CVE-2018-11386

This CVE pertains to a vulnerability in Symfony's HttpFoundation component that could be exploited to launch denial of service attacks.

What is CVE-2018-11386?

This CVE identifies a flaw in Symfony versions 2.7.x to 2.7.48, 2.8.x to 2.8.41, 3.3.x to 3.3.17, 3.4.x to 3.4.11, and 4.0.x to 4.0.11, allowing attackers to disrupt Symfony applications using a specific payload.

The Impact of CVE-2018-11386

The vulnerability in the PDOSessionHandler class could be exploited to launch denial of service attacks on Symfony applications with minimal resources.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-11386

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The PDOSessionHandler class in Symfony's HttpFoundation component is susceptible to exploitation, enabling attackers to disrupt applications through denial of service attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Symfony versions 2.7.x to 2.7.48
Symfony versions 2.8.x to 2.8.41
Symfony versions 3.3.x to 3.3.17
Symfony versions 3.4.x to 3.4.11
Symfony versions 4.0.x to 4.0.11

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging specific configurations and a carefully crafted payload, attackers can exploit the PDOSessionHandler class to launch denial of service attacks on Symfony applications.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-11386 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Symfony to the latest patched version.
Monitor and restrict network traffic to detect and prevent potential attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software components.
Implement strong access controls and authentication mechanisms.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates to mitigate the risk of exploitation.