CVE-2022-23498 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides an overview of CVE-2022-23498, a vulnerability in Grafana that allows users to query another user's session when query caching is enabled.

Understanding CVE-2022-23498

This section delves into the details of the vulnerability, its impact, technical description, affected systems, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2022-23498?

CVE-2022-23498 is a security vulnerability in Grafana that arises when query caching is enabled, allowing users to access another user's session by querying a datasource.

The Impact of CVE-2022-23498

The vulnerability exposes sensitive information to unauthorized actors, including confidential data and user sessions, posing a significant risk to data privacy and security.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-23498

Here we outline the technical aspects of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanisms.

Vulnerability Description

Grafana caches all headers, including

grafana_session

when query caching is enabled, enabling users to acquire another user's session by querying a datasource.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Grafana versions >= 8.3.0-beta1 and < 9.2.10, exposing users of these versions to the risk of session hijacking.

Exploitation Mechanism

By querying a datasource with caching enabled, malicious users can exploit the vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to another user's session.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section covers the necessary steps to mitigate the CVE-2022-23498 vulnerability, ensuring immediate protection and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

To mitigate the vulnerability, it is recommended to disable datasource query caching for all datasources in Grafana. Additionally, users should update to patched versions 9.2.10 or 9.3.4 to address the issue.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust access controls, regular security audits, and monitoring user sessions can help prevent similar vulnerabilities and enhance overall system security.

Patching and Updates

Regularly applying security patches, staying informed about security advisories, and promptly updating software can safeguard against known vulnerabilities and protect sensitive data.