CVE-2020-5304 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

WhiteSource Application Vulnerability Management (AVM) before version 20.4.1 is vulnerable to Log Injection via the idp parameter, allowing attackers to manipulate logs and insert malicious data.

Understanding CVE-2020-5304

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the WhiteSource AVM dashboard that enables Log Injection through specific parameters.

What is CVE-2020-5304?

The vulnerability in WhiteSource AVM allows attackers to perform Log Injection by exploiting the idp parameter in the /saml/login URI. This manipulation results in the closure of the current log and the creation of a new log with unauthorized data entries.

The Impact of CVE-2020-5304

The exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access, data manipulation, and the insertion of false entries into the system logs, potentially compromising the integrity and confidentiality of the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-5304

WhiteSource AVM's vulnerability to Log Injection has the following technical aspects:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows attackers to inject malicious data and false entries into the system logs by exploiting the idp parameter in the /saml/login URI.

Affected Systems and Versions

WhiteSource Application Vulnerability Management (AVM) before version 20.4.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can manipulate the idp parameter in the /saml/login URI to inject %0A%0D substrings, triggering the Log Injection vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-5304, consider the following mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update WhiteSource AVM to version 20.4.1 or later to mitigate the Log Injection vulnerability.
Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities or unauthorized entries.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict input validation mechanisms to prevent malicious data injection.
Conduct regular security assessments and audits to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

Regularly apply security patches and updates provided by WhiteSource to ensure the system's resilience against known vulnerabilities.