Mastodon, a social network that runs on software for servers of the same name, has been found to have a vulnerability that could have allowed attackers to read individual pieces of information. This vulnerability was caused by inadequate filtering of the data transferred during LDAP authentication.
Attackers could smuggle in an LDAP database query that could be used to read information about users bit by bit, but it was not possible for them to obtain password hashes.
The vulnerability has been labelled CVE-2023-28853, and Mastodon versions from 2.5.0 were affected.
However, the developers have since closed the security gaps in versions 4.1.2, 4.0.4, and 3.5.8. The release notes for the three new Mastodon versions include a description of the vulnerability and version 3.0.6 of Ruby as a security update to address a previous ReDoS vulnerability.
Administrators of a Mastodon instance are advised to install the updated versions as soon as possible, as the developers classify the vulnerability that has been closed as high-risk. This comes on the heels of news that a configuration error in the Mastodon.social instance led to a data leak due to human error.
During the expansion of hardware and software, an archive server was visible to all users for several weeks.
Overall, the Mastodon network has several vulnerabilities, but the developers are working to address them. In the meantime, users should take steps to secure their accounts wherever possible. This includes enabling two-factor authentication, using strong passwords, and being cautious about the information they share online.
With the potential for cyber attacks to cause significant harm, it is important for both developers and users to remain vigilant in protecting their online presence.
