CVE-2018-11407 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A vulnerability was found in the Ldap feature in Symfony versions 2.8.x through 2.8.37, 3.3.x through 3.3.17, 3.4.x through 3.4.7, and 4.0.x through 4.0.7. This vulnerability enables unauthorized access by remote attackers who can log in using a valid username but a "null" password, thus triggering an unauthenticated bind. It should be noted that this vulnerability still persists due to an incomplete fix for CVE-2016-2403.

Understanding CVE-2018-11407

This CVE identifies a security flaw in the Ldap component of Symfony that allows remote attackers to bypass authentication using a specific method.

What is CVE-2018-11407?

CVE-2018-11407 is a vulnerability in Symfony versions 2.8.x through 2.8.37, 3.3.x through 3.3.17, 3.4.x through 3.4.7, and 4.0.x through 4.0.7, which permits unauthorized access to the system.

The Impact of CVE-2018-11407

The vulnerability allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized access by exploiting a flaw in the Ldap feature, potentially compromising the security of affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-11407

This section provides more in-depth technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The issue in the Ldap component of Symfony versions 2.8.x through 2.8.37, 3.3.x through 3.3.17, 3.4.x through 3.4.7, and 4.0.x through 4.0.7 allows attackers to bypass authentication by using a "null" password and a valid username, triggering an unauthenticated bind.

Affected Systems and Versions

Symfony 2.8.x through 2.8.37
Symfony 3.3.x through 3.3.17
Symfony 3.4.x through 3.4.7
Symfony 4.0.x through 4.0.7

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability by logging in with a valid username and a "null" password, which initiates an unauthenticated bind, granting unauthorized access.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-11407 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Symfony to the latest patched version immediately.
Implement strong password policies to prevent the use of "null" passwords.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit LDAP configurations for any misconfigurations.
Conduct security training for users to raise awareness about password security.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all systems running affected versions of Symfony are promptly patched with the latest updates to mitigate the vulnerability.