Authorization Bypass in LavaLite CMS Allows Privilege Escalation

Executive Summary

This vulnerability is an authorization bypass in LavaLite CMS through version 10.1.2. It allows authenticated low-privileged users to modify other users' accounts by sending a PATCH request to the user update route with a target identifier. Attackers can change name, email, password, status, or mobile, including for administrators.

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Detection Guidance

To detect this vulnerability, monitor HTTP PATCH requests to user update endpoints in LavaLite CMS. Check for unauthorized modifications to user accounts by low-privileged users. Review logs for requests targeting other users' identifiers with successful 201 responses.

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Impact Analysis

An attacker with low privileges could escalate their access by modifying other users' accounts, including administrators. This could lead to unauthorized data changes, account takeovers, or further system compromise. The impact includes data integrity loss and potential privilege escalation.

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Compliance Impact

This vulnerability could violate compliance requirements such as GDPR (data integrity and access controls) and HIPAA (unauthorized access to protected health information). It undermines user consent and data protection measures, potentially leading to regulatory penalties.

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Mitigation Strategies

Immediately update LavaLite CMS to the latest version beyond 10.1.2. Implement strict authorization checks in user update endpoints to validate user permissions before processing PATCH requests. Disable PATCH requests for user updates if not required.

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