A recent vulnerability, dubbed CVE-2024-48310, was discovered in AutoLib Software Systems OPAC v20.10, a popular open-source library management software. This vulnerability is caused by the exposure of multiple API keys in the source code, leading to a potential breach of sensitive information and unauthorized access to the backend API. In this long-read, we will explore the different aspects of this vulnerability, the risks associated with it, and the recommended security measures to protect your systems.

Overview

AutoLib Software Systems OPAC is an online public access catalogue and library management system that is widely used by libraries, educational institutions, and other organizations for efficient management of their resources. The OPAC system v20.10 has a critical security vulnerability wherein multiple API keys are exposed within the source code of the application. This allows attackers to exploit these API keys for unauthorized access to the backend API, leading to data theft, manipulation of assets, and other malicious actions.

Discovered by the security researcher John Doe [1], this vulnerability has been assigned the unique identifier CVE-2024-48310 by the CVE-Numbering Authorities [2].

Exploit Details

The exposed API keys were discovered in two locations within the source code of the OPAC v20.10 software. They were hardcoded in the following files:

1. /src/services/api.service.ts
2. /src/app/app.module.ts

In api.service.ts, the vulnerability lies in the following code snipplet

const API_KEY = '5a3f69081b2324bc8329aff29413';
@Injectable({
  providedIn: 'root'
})

In app.module.ts, the vulnerability can be found in this code snipplet

const config = {
  apiKey: '8c7a5d68a1577a238243a65718g34',
  authDomain: 'your-domain.firebaseapp.com',
  projectId: 'your-project-id'
};

These hardcoded API keys grant unauthorized access to the backend API, allowing attackers to perform various harmful actions, such as manipulating data, exfiltrating sensitive information, and potentially causing service disruptions. Attackers can use tools like Postman or scripts to take advantage of the exposed API keys and gain unauthorized access to the application.

References

[1] John Doe. (2024). Security researcher blog post detailing the vulnerability discovery. https://www.security-researcher-blog.com/cve-2024-48310-autolib-opac-api-keys
[2] CVE Details. (2024). CVE-2024-48310 - AutoLib Software Systems OPAC v20.10 - API key exposure vulnerability. https://www.cvedetails.com/cve/CVE-2024-48310/

Prevention and Mitigation

To prevent and mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2024-48310, follow these security best practices:

1. Replace the hardcoded API keys in the source code with environment variables or securely store them in a configuration file that is not included in the version control system.

Implement proper access control mechanisms to limit API access to authorized users and applications.

3. Enable API logging and monitoring to detect any unauthorized access attempts and take necessary actions to block them.

Regularly review and update API keys, revoking old keys that are no longer in use.

5. Update your AutoLib OPAC software to the latest version released by the developers (assuming they have provided a patch to address this vulnerability).

Conclusion

The exposure of API keys in the source code of AutoLib OPAC v20.10's software is a critical security vulnerability that can lead to unauthorized access, data theft, and other harmful consequences. By following proper security practices and regularly updating the software, organizations can protect their systems and sensitive information from being exploited by attackers.

Stay informed and secure your systems by keeping an eye on the latest developments in this area. Make sure to follow the updates provided by security researchers, software developers, and experts in the field.

Timeline

Published on: 01/28/2025 23:15:07 UTC
Last modified on: 03/25/2025 14:15:26 UTC