CVE-2020-4072: Log Forging in generator-jhipster-kotlin

generator-jhipster-kotlin Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

25/06/2020
Yes i
Moderate
5.3

CVE-2020-4072: Log Forging in generator-jhipster-kotlin. Affects generator-jhipster-kotlin versions >= 1.6.0, < 1.7.0. Fixed in 1.7.0. How to fix ↓

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Background

generator-jhipster-kotlin is an npm package used for generating Kotlin code in JHipster applications. It provides a set of tools and templates to streamline the development process. However, versions prior to 1.7.0 are vulnerable to log forging attacks.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in generator-jhipster-kotlin allows an attacker to forge log entries by manipulating the email provided for invalid password reset attempts. As the email is user-provided and the API is public, an attacker can exploit this vulnerability to inject malicious log entries. This vulnerability is categorized as CWE-117: Improper Output Neutralization for Logs, which can lead to various security issues. It is important to note that this vulnerability only affects applications generated with JWT or session authentication, while applications using OAuth are not vulnerable.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

1.7.0

This is the first release that contains the fix.

npm install generator-jhipster-kotlin@1.7.0

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Workaround

If updating the package is not immediately feasible, a temporary workaround can be implemented. In the 'AccountResource.kt' file, locate the line:

log.warn("Password reset requested for non existing mail '$mail'");

Replace it with:

log.warn("Password reset requested for non existing mail");

This modification removes the email parameter from the log entry, eliminating the possibility of log forging.

Conclusion

The vulnerability in generator-jhipster-kotlin allows for log forging attacks, which can lead to various security risks. It is crucial to update the package to version 1.7.0 or later to mitigate this vulnerability. Alternatively, the provided workaround can be implemented. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

Log forging is a technique used by attackers to manipulate log entries by injecting malicious content. In this vulnerability, an attacker can forge log entries by providing a manipulated email for invalid password reset attempts.

This vulnerability affects applications generated with JWT or session authentication using the generator-jhipster-kotlin package. Applications using OAuth are not vulnerable.

Log forging can lead to various security issues, including the ability to inject malicious log entries, manipulate audit trails, and obfuscate the detection of other attacks.

To mitigate this vulnerability, it is recommended to update the generator-jhipster-kotlin package to version 1.7.0 or later. Alternatively, you can apply the provided workaround by modifying the 'AccountResource.kt' file as mentioned.

You can find more information about log forging and its impact on security in the following references:

  • CWE-117: Improper Output Neutralization for Logs
  • OWASP Log Injection
  • Baeldung article on JVM Log Forging

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for generator-jhipster-kotlin.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

1.7.0

This is the first release that contains the fix.

npm install generator-jhipster-kotlin@1.7.0

Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →

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