CVE-2024-51037 is a vulnerability identified in kodbox, an open-source web-based file management system, specifically affecting versions 1.52.04 and earlier. The issue lies within the captcha implementation of the password reset functionality, which can be exploited remotely without authentication or user interaction. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-346, indicating an origin validation error where the system fails to properly validate the source or integrity of the captcha response. This flaw allows an attacker to bypass intended protections and retrieve sensitive information, potentially including user account details or password reset tokens. The attack vector is network-based, requiring no privileges, which increases the exposure risk. However, the vulnerability does not allow modification of data or disruption of service, limiting its impact to confidentiality. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.3 (medium), reflecting the ease of exploitation combined with limited impact scope. No patches or known exploits have been reported as of the publication date, but the vulnerability's presence in a widely used file management platform necessitates prompt attention from administrators. The lack of user interaction and authentication requirements means automated exploitation attempts could be feasible, emphasizing the need for mitigation.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-51037 is the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information through the password reset captcha feature. For organizations, this could lead to exposure of user credentials or password reset tokens, increasing the risk of subsequent account compromise or unauthorized access. Although the vulnerability does not directly affect data integrity or system availability, the confidentiality breach can undermine trust in the affected system and potentially facilitate further attacks if attackers leverage the obtained information. Enterprises relying on kodbox for secure file sharing and management may face compliance and reputational risks if sensitive user data is leaked. The ease of remote exploitation without authentication broadens the attack surface, especially for internet-facing deployments. However, the absence of known exploits in the wild and no reported active attacks somewhat reduces immediate risk, though this may change as awareness grows. Organizations with large user bases or sensitive data stored in kodbox installations are particularly vulnerable to targeted reconnaissance and exploitation attempts.

To mitigate CVE-2024-51037, organizations should first monitor official kodbox channels for patches or security advisories and apply updates promptly once available. In the interim, administrators can implement the following specific measures: 1) Restrict access to the password reset functionality by IP whitelisting or network segmentation to limit exposure. 2) Enhance captcha validation by integrating more robust third-party captcha services that include server-side verification to prevent bypass. 3) Implement rate limiting and anomaly detection on password reset requests to detect and block automated exploitation attempts. 4) Review and harden the password reset workflow to ensure tokens and sensitive data are not exposed through error messages or response headers. 5) Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing focused on authentication and password reset mechanisms. 6) Educate users on recognizing phishing attempts that may leverage leaked information. These targeted mitigations go beyond generic advice by focusing on the specific vulnerable component and attack vector.