CVE-2020-15841 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Liferay Portal before 7.3.0, and Liferay DXP 7.0 before fix pack 89, 7.1 before fix pack 17, and 7.2 before fix pack 4, does not safely test a connection to an LDAP server, potentially exposing the LDAP server's password.

Understanding CVE-2020-15841

This CVE highlights a vulnerability in Liferay Portal and Liferay DXP versions that could lead to the exposure of sensitive information.

What is CVE-2020-15841?

The vulnerability in Liferay Portal and Liferay DXP versions allows remote attackers to obtain the LDAP server's password through the Test LDAP Connection feature.

The Impact of CVE-2020-15841

CVSS Score: 8.3 (High)
Attack Vector: Network
Attack Complexity: High
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: Required
Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability Impact: High
Scope: Changed

Technical Details of CVE-2020-15841

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from the failure to securely test connections to LDAP servers, enabling attackers to retrieve the LDAP server's password.

Affected Systems and Versions

Liferay Portal before 7.3.0
Liferay DXP 7.0 before fix pack 89
Liferay DXP 7.1 before fix pack 17
Liferay DXP 7.2 before fix pack 4

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability remotely by leveraging the Test LDAP Connection feature to retrieve the LDAP server's password.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-15841 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Liferay Portal and Liferay DXP to the latest fixed versions.
Monitor LDAP server logs for any suspicious activities.
Restrict network access to LDAP servers.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update security configurations.
Conduct security training for personnel handling LDAP connections.

Patching and Updates

Apply the recommended patches provided by Liferay for the affected versions.