Platform
php
Component
elabftw
Fixed in
4.2.1
CVE-2021-43834 is an authentication bypass vulnerability affecting eLabFTW versions prior to 4.2.0. This flaw allows an attacker to authenticate as an existing user if the instance utilizes Single Sign-On (SSO) authentication methods like LDAP or SAML instead of the default local password mechanism. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive research data and compromise the integrity of the lab notebook system. Upgrade to version 4.2.0 to resolve this issue.
The impact of CVE-2021-43834 is significant due to the potential for complete account takeover. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability can effectively impersonate any existing user within the eLabFTW system. This grants them access to all data associated with that user's account, including research notes, experimental data, protocols, and potentially sensitive intellectual property. The ability to impersonate users also facilitates lateral movement within the lab environment, potentially allowing attackers to compromise other systems or accounts. This vulnerability is particularly concerning given the sensitive nature of research data often stored in electronic lab notebooks.
CVE-2021-43834 was publicly disclosed on December 15, 2021. While no active exploitation campaigns have been definitively confirmed, the vulnerability's critical severity and ease of exploitation make it a likely target. It is not currently listed on the CISA KEV catalog. Public proof-of-concept exploits are available, increasing the risk of widespread exploitation.
Exploit Status
EPSS
0.32% (55% percentile)
CVSS Vector
The primary mitigation for CVE-2021-43834 is to upgrade eLabFTW to version 4.2.0 or later, which contains the fix. If immediate upgrading is not possible due to compatibility issues or system downtime constraints, consider disabling LDAP or SAML authentication temporarily and reverting to the local password mechanism. This significantly reduces the attack surface. Implement strict access controls and multi-factor authentication (MFA) where possible to further limit the impact of a potential breach. Monitor eLabFTW logs for suspicious authentication attempts, particularly those originating from unusual IP addresses or user agents.
Update eLabFTW to version 4.2.0 or higher. This version corrects the incorrect authentication vulnerability. The update can be performed through the administration interface or by following the upgrade instructions provided by the vendor.
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CVE-2021-43834 is a critical vulnerability in eLabFTW versions before 4.2.0 that allows attackers to bypass authentication using LDAP or SAML, potentially impersonating existing users.
You are affected if you are using eLabFTW version 4.2.0 or earlier and have configured LDAP or SAML authentication.
Upgrade eLabFTW to version 4.2.0 or later. If immediate upgrade is not possible, disable LDAP/SAML authentication temporarily.
While no confirmed active exploitation campaigns are public, the vulnerability's severity and ease of exploitation make it a likely target.
Refer to the eLabFTW security advisory on their website for detailed information and updates: https://www.elabftw.org/security/advisories/
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