CVE-2021-36804 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A detailed overview of CVE-2021-36804, a vulnerability in Akaunting version 2.1.12 and earlier that allows for password reset spoofing. Learn about the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

Understanding CVE-2021-36804

This section delves into the specifics of the Akaunting Password Reset Relay vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-36804?

CVE-2021-36804 is a password reset spoofing vulnerability in Akaunting version 2.1.12 and earlier. An attacker with knowledge of the target's email address can proxy password reset requests through a running Akaunting instance.

The Impact of CVE-2021-36804

The vulnerability can lead to unauthorized password resets, compromising user accounts and sensitive information. The issue stems from how proxy headers are handled in the Laravel framework.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-36804

Explore the specifics of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows attackers to impersonate users and initiate password resets by proxying requests through Akaunting instances.

Affected Systems and Versions

Akaunting version 2.1.12 and earlier are impacted by this vulnerability, particularly in multi-tenant implementations.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this issue by leveraging knowledge of a target's email address to proxy password reset requests.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover the necessary steps to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2021-36804 and prevent potential security breaches.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update to Akaunting version 2.1.13 or later to patch the vulnerability and enhance security.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement robust password recovery mechanisms and regularly update software to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and updates for Akaunting and related frameworks to address known vulnerabilities effectively.