Horizon Alert
Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters
A session fixation vulnerability exists in the nerves-hub web interface, allowing an unauthenticated attacker to potentially gain API access to another user's account by tricking them into clicking a specially crafted login link. This could lead to unauthorized access and control over user accounts.
- Unauthenticated access to user API tokens.
- Confirms the need for diligent user link verification.
- Assess relevance to your connected device infrastructure.
Attack Path
How an attacker could exploit the issue
An attacker can initiate a CLI login flow without any authentication to obtain a special link. By tricking a logged-in user into clicking this link and confirming the login, the attacker can then retrieve an API token associated with that user's account. This allows the attacker to impersonate the user and access their account details.
- No authentication required initially.
- User confirms malicious login link.
- Attacker gains unauthorized API token.
Live Threat
Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context
An unauthenticated attacker could obtain an API token for another user's account by tricking that user into clicking a specially crafted login link. This could allow the attacker to impersonate the targeted user through their API token.
- User API tokens could be exposed.
- Attacker crafts a malicious login link.
- Unauthorized account access may occur.
Operational Fix
Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps
The nerves_hub_web platform, specifically its CLI login flow, is susceptible to session fixation, potentially allowing an unauthenticated attacker to obtain an API token. Owners of the nerves_hub_web application should first confirm its deployment and accessibility. The immediate practical next step involves identifying all instances of the affected technology, verifying its exposure and business criticality, and then coordinating remediation efforts with the accountable team, which is likely the application or platform owner.
- Application owners should manage this issue.
- Verify nerves_hub_web instances and accessibility.
- Plan remediation based on risk.
