Overview
A critical authentication bypass vulnerability, identified as CVE-2025-27935, has been discovered in the OTP Integration Kit for PingFederate. This flaw allows attackers to bypass multi-factor authentication (MFA) by manipulating the authentication state. Specifically, the server incorrectly advances the authentication process without properly validating the One-Time Password (OTP).
Technical Details
The vulnerability stems from a failure to properly enforce HTTP method validation and state validation within the OTP Integration Kit. An attacker can exploit this by sending crafted requests that circumvent the OTP verification step. By manipulating the request flow, the server incorrectly assumes successful OTP validation and proceeds to grant access, even without the correct OTP being provided. The vulnerable component does not properly verify the authentication state before advancing to the next stage, allowing an attacker to inject a bypass.
CVSS Analysis
Currently, the CVSS score for CVE-2025-27935 is N/A. However, given the nature of an authentication bypass vulnerability, it is anticipated that a high CVSS score will be assigned once the analysis is completed and published. The lack of an initial score does not diminish the severity or criticality of this vulnerability. The CVSS base score and vector string will be updated as soon as they are available.
Possible Impact
A successful exploit of CVE-2025-27935 can have severe consequences, including:
- Unauthorized Access: Attackers can gain access to protected resources and accounts without providing valid OTP credentials.
- Data Breach: Compromised accounts can lead to the exposure of sensitive data.
- System Compromise: Attackers may be able to escalate privileges and compromise the entire PingFederate system and potentially connected resources.
- Reputational Damage: A successful attack can severely damage an organization’s reputation and erode customer trust.
Mitigation or Patch Steps
Ping Identity has released a security advisory and potentially a patched version of the OTP Integration Kit to address this vulnerability. It is crucial to take the following steps immediately:
- Apply the Patch: Download and install the latest version of the OTP Integration Kit for PingFederate from the Ping Identity Downloads Page.
- Review Configuration: Ensure that all OTP integration configurations are properly secured and follow Ping Identity’s best practices.
- Monitor Logs: Closely monitor PingFederate logs for any suspicious activity that may indicate an attempted exploitation of this vulnerability.
- Implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) Rules: Configure your WAF to block requests that attempt to bypass OTP verification.
References
Ping Identity Security Advisory: SECADV051-PingFederate-OTP-Integration-Kit-authentication-bypass
PingFederate Downloads Page
CVE-2025-27935 Record
