CVE-2018-3823 : Security Advisory and Response

X-Pack Machine Learning versions before 6.2.4 and 5.6.9 had a vulnerability related to cross-site scripting (XSS) that could be exploited by users with manage_ml permissions.

Understanding CVE-2018-3823

X-Pack Machine Learning had a vulnerability that allowed users to embed harmful data in job configurations, potentially leading to unauthorized access or malicious actions.

What is CVE-2018-3823?

This CVE refers to a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Elasticsearch X-Pack Machine Learning versions prior to 6.2.4 and 5.6.9. Users with specific permissions could exploit this vulnerability to compromise sensitive data or perform destructive actions.

The Impact of CVE-2018-3823

The vulnerability could enable attackers to access confidential information or execute harmful actions on behalf of other users within the Machine Learning environment.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-3823

X-Pack Machine Learning's vulnerability is detailed below:

Vulnerability Description

Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in X-Pack Machine Learning
Users with manage_ml permissions could embed harmful data in job configurations

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Elasticsearch X-Pack Machine Learning
Vendor: Elastic
Vulnerable Versions: before 6.2.4 and 5.6.9

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with manage_ml permissions could construct jobs with malicious data
Unauthorized access to sensitive information or malicious actions on behalf of other users

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-3823, follow these steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade X-Pack Machine Learning to version 6.2.4 or 5.6.9
Restrict permissions for manage_ml to trusted users

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update permissions and configurations
Educate users on secure coding practices and XSS prevention

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates promptly to mitigate known vulnerabilities