CVE-2023-48292
CVE-2023-48292
Weakness (CWE)
CVSS Vector
v3.1- Attack Vector
- Network
- Attack Complexity
- Low
- Privileges Required
- None
- User Interaction
- Required
- Scope
- Changed
- Confidentiality
- High
- Integrity
- High
- Availability
- High
Description
The XWiki Admin Tools Application provides tools to help the administration of XWiki. Starting in version 4.4 and prior to version 4.5.1, a cross site request forgery vulnerability in the admin tool for executing shell commands on the server allows an attacker to execute arbitrary shell commands by tricking an admin into loading the URL with the shell command. A very simple possibility for an attack are comments. When the attacker can leave a comment on any page in the wiki it is sufficient to include an image with an URL like `/xwiki/bin/view/Admin/RunShellCommand?command=touch%20/tmp/attacked` in the comment. When an admin views the comment, the file `/tmp/attacked` will be created on the server. The output of the command is also vulnerable to XWiki syntax injection which offers a simple way to execute Groovy in the context of the XWiki installation and thus an even easier way to compromise the integrity and confidentiality of the whole XWiki installation. This has been patched by adding a form token check in version 4.5.1 of the admin tools. Some workarounds are available. The patch can be applied manually to the affected wiki pages. Alternatively, the document `Admin.RunShellCommand` can also be deleted if the possibility to run shell commands isn't needed.
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of CVE-2023-48292
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
CVE ID: CVE-2023-48292 CVSS Score: 9.6
The vulnerability in the XWiki Admin Tools Application, specifically in versions 4.4 through 4.5.0, is a Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) issue that allows an attacker to execute arbitrary shell commands on the server. The severity of this vulnerability is rated at 9.6 on the CVSS scale, indicating a critical risk. The high score is justified by the potential for complete system compromise, including loss of integrity and confidentiality of the XWiki installation.
2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods
Attack Vectors:
- CSRF Exploitation: An attacker can trick an admin into loading a URL with a shell command embedded in it. This can be achieved through various means, such as including a malicious URL in a comment on a wiki page.
- XWiki Syntax Injection: The output of the executed command is also vulnerable to XWiki syntax injection, which can be exploited to execute Groovy code within the XWiki context.
Exploitation Methods:
- Comment Injection: An attacker can leave a comment on a wiki page with an image URL that includes a shell command. When an admin views the comment, the command is executed.
- Direct URL Manipulation: An attacker can send a crafted URL directly to an admin, enticing them to click it.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
Affected Versions:
- XWiki Admin Tools Application versions 4.4 through 4.5.0.
Unaffected Versions:
- XWiki Admin Tools Application version 4.5.1 and later.
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
Immediate Mitigation:
- Upgrade: Upgrade to XWiki Admin Tools Application version 4.5.1 or later, which includes a patch that adds a form token check to prevent CSRF attacks.
- Manual Patch: Apply the patch manually to the affected wiki pages if upgrading is not immediately feasible.
- Remove Functionality: If the ability to run shell commands is not needed, delete the
Admin.RunShellCommanddocument to eliminate the vulnerability.
Long-Term Mitigation:
- Regular Updates: Ensure that all software components are regularly updated to the latest versions.
- Access Control: Implement strict access controls to limit who can execute administrative commands.
- Input Validation: Enhance input validation mechanisms to prevent syntax injection attacks.
5. Impact on Cybersecurity Landscape
This vulnerability highlights the importance of securing administrative tools and the potential risks associated with CSRF and syntax injection attacks. It underscores the need for robust input validation, access control, and regular software updates. The high CVSS score indicates the significant impact this vulnerability can have on affected systems, emphasizing the necessity for proactive security measures.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
Vulnerability Details:
- CSRF Vulnerability: The admin tool for executing shell commands lacks proper CSRF protection, allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary shell commands by tricking an admin into loading a malicious URL.
- Syntax Injection: The output of the executed command is vulnerable to XWiki syntax injection, which can be exploited to execute Groovy code within the XWiki context.
Patch Details:
- Form Token Check: The patch in version 4.5.1 introduces a form token check to prevent CSRF attacks.
- Manual Patch Application: The patch can be applied manually to the affected wiki pages by following the instructions provided in the security advisories.
References:
Conclusion: CVE-2023-48292 represents a critical vulnerability in the XWiki Admin Tools Application that can lead to complete system compromise. Immediate mitigation through upgrading to the patched version or applying manual patches is essential. Long-term strategies should focus on robust input validation, strict access controls, and regular software updates to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.