CVE-2020-4071 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-4071, a timing attack vulnerability in django-basic-auth-ip-whitelist < 0.3.4. Understand the impact, affected systems, and mitigation steps.
In django-basic-auth-ip-whitelist before 0.3.4, a potential timing attack exists on websites using basic authentication. This vulnerability allows attackers to potentially determine valid credentials through timing the server's validation process.
Understanding CVE-2020-4071
This CVE involves a timing attack on django-basic-auth-ip-whitelist, affecting versions prior to 0.3.4.
What is CVE-2020-4071?
A timing attack vulnerability in django-basic-auth-ip-whitelist allows attackers to exploit the time taken by the server to validate credentials, potentially revealing valid login details.
The Impact of CVE-2020-4071
- CVSS Base Score: 2.2 (Low)
- Attack Complexity: High
- Attack Vector: Physical
- Scope: Changed
- Confidentiality Impact: Low
- Integrity Impact: None
- Privileges Required: None
- User Interaction: None
- Availability Impact: None
Technical Details of CVE-2020-4071
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in django-basic-auth-ip-whitelist allows for a timing attack, potentially exposing valid credentials used for basic authentication.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Product: django-basic-auth-ip-whitelist
- Vendor: tm-kn
- Affected Versions: < 0.3.4
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability arises from the character-by-character string comparison during credential validation, enabling attackers to exploit timing differences to deduce valid credentials.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protect your systems from this vulnerability by following these mitigation steps.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update to version 0.3.4 of django-basic-auth-ip-whitelist.
- Change basic authentication credentials in Django projects using this package.
- Consider using IP whitelisting only as a workaround.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly review and update security configurations.
- Implement multi-factor authentication for enhanced security.
Patching and Updates
- Ensure all software components are regularly updated to the latest versions.