CVE-2024–55470: Authentication Bypass in Oqtane Framework

Overview

In collaboration with Kaushikjoshi and Rudra Brahmbhatt, we discovered a critical authentication bypass vulnerability in the Oqtane Framework (version 6.0.0). Designated as CVE-2024–55470, this flaw allows attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms and access sensitive data or escalate privileges.

This blog provides a comprehensive breakdown of the vulnerability, offering clarity for beginners while including technical depth for seasoned professionals.

What Is Authentication Bypass?

Authentication bypass occurs when an attacker circumvents login or access control mechanisms to gain unauthorized access. This vulnerability allows attackers to:

• Access sensitive user data without proper permissions.
• Escalate privileges to gain unauthorized control.
• Compromise system integrity, exposing organizations to reputational and regulatory risks.

Technical Details

• Affected Framework: Oqtane Framework
• Version: 6.0.0
• Endpoint: /api/Setting?entityname=User&entityid=<ID>
• Vulnerable Parameter: entityid

Step-by-Step Analysis of CVE-2024–55470

1. Identifying the Vulnerable Version

Through meticulous testing, we confirmed that Oqtane Framework version 6.0.0 is vulnerable. Using controlled environments, we simulated various scenarios and observed a failure to enforce user authentication and authorization for specific requests.

2. Locating the Flaw

The vulnerability resides in the /api/Setting endpoint, particularly when:

• The entityname parameter is set to User.
• The entityid parameter is manipulated by an attacker.

3. Observing Application Behavior

By analyzing how the application processes requests, we identified that the server did not validate whether the entityid belongs to the authenticated user.

For instance, the following crafted request could bypass authentication:

GET /api/Setting?entityname=User&entityid=123 HTTP/1.1  
Host: target.com  
Authorization: Bearer <valid_token_for_different_user>

Here, a valid token for one user can be used to access another user’s data by simply changing the entityid parameter.

4. Clear Authentication Tokens

Remove all session tokens and authentication cookies to simulate an unauthenticated state.

5. Manipulate the entityid Parameter

Modify the entityid parameter to access information belonging to other users or escalate privileges. For example:

GET http://localhost:5000/api/Setting?entityname=User&entityid=1

Examples of Exploitation:

• Change entityid=1 to entityid=2 or entityid=3 to retrieve data for other users.
• Continue iterating values to collect additional sensitive information.

6. Observe the Server Response

Even without valid authentication, the server discloses sensitive user data in its response. This indicates a failure in enforcing server-side validation and access control mechanisms.

The Risks of CVE-2024–55470

This vulnerability poses significant risks, including:

• Data Breaches: Unauthorized access to sensitive information.
• Privilege Escalation: Gaining elevated permissions.
• Regulatory Violations: Non-compliance with data protection laws like GDPR or CCPA.
• Reputational Damage: Loss of user trust and potential financial penalties.

Mitigation Recommendations

To address CVE-2024–55470, we recommend the following steps:

1. Implement Strong Access Controls
   Validate entityid against the authenticated user’s session or permissions. Unauthorized requests should return an HTTP 403 Forbidden response.
2. Avoid Trusting Client-Side Inputs
   Use indirect references like hashed or tokenized IDs instead of exposing raw database keys in API requests.
3. Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
   Enforce strict roles and permissions for all endpoints to ensure users can only access data they’re authorized to view or modify.
4. Input Validation
   Perform robust server-side validation of all request parameters to prevent malicious inputs.
5. Regular Security Audits
   Conduct periodic security assessments and implement logging to monitor for anomalies.

Conclusion

CVE-2024–55470 highlights the critical importance of robust authentication and authorization mechanisms. Even a well-built framework like Oqtane can fall prey to vulnerabilities if proper security measures are not enforced.

To ensure your applications are secure, always:

• Validate inputs rigorously.
• Apply strict access controls.
• Conduct regular security reviews.

By addressing vulnerabilities like CVE-2024–55470, we can create more resilient systems and safeguard user trust.

Special Thanks
A big shoutout to Kaushikjoshi and Rudra Brahmbhatt for their invaluable collaboration and insights during this research.

Let’s continue to build a safer digital world — together.