CVE-2023-21829 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE-2023-21829 article provides detailed information about a vulnerability in the Oracle Database RDBMS Security component of Oracle Database Server. The vulnerability impacts versions 19c and 21c of the Database - Enterprise Edition by Oracle Corporation.

Understanding CVE-2023-21829

This section will delve into the nature of the CVE-2023-21829 vulnerability and its potential impact on affected systems.

What is CVE-2023-21829?

CVE-2023-21829 is an easily exploitable vulnerability that allows a low-privileged attacker with Create Session privilege and network access via Oracle Net to compromise the Oracle Database RDBMS Security. Successful attacks require human interaction from a person other than the attacker, leading to unauthorized creation, deletion, or modification access to critical data within the Oracle Database RDBMS Security. Additionally, unauthorized read access to a subset of Oracle Database RDBMS Security accessible data is also possible.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21829

The successful exploitation of CVE-2023-21829 can result in unauthorized manipulation and access to critical data within the Oracle Database RDBMS Security. It can lead to severe consequences such as unauthorized creation, deletion, or modification access to critical data or all Oracle Database RDBMS Security accessible data, along with unauthorized read access to a subset of Oracle Database RDBMS Security accessible data. The CVSS 3.1 Base Score for this vulnerability is 6.3, indicating medium severity with confidentiality and integrity impacts.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21829

This section will provide a more in-depth look at the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems and versions, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Oracle Database RDBMS Security component of Oracle Database Server allows a low-privileged attacker to compromise the security of the Oracle Database RDBMS. It is classified as an easily exploitable vulnerability that requires low privileges and human interaction for successful attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

The versions affected by CVE-2023-21829 are the Oracle Database - Enterprise Edition versions 19c and 21c.

Exploitation Mechanism

An attacker with Create Session privilege and network access via Oracle Net can exploit this vulnerability to compromise the Oracle Database RDBMS Security. Successful attacks require human interaction from a person other than the attacker.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard systems against CVE-2023-21829, certain immediate steps can be taken, along with implementing long-term security practices and applying necessary patches and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

System administrators are advised to monitor Oracle Security Alerts closely, apply the recommended security patches promptly, restrict network access to vulnerable components, and implement the principle of least privilege.

Long-Term Security Practices

Establishing robust network security measures, regular security audits, employee training on security best practices, and maintaining up-to-date security configurations are essential for long-term protection against vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Oracle Corporation periodically releases security updates and patches. It is crucial for organizations to stay informed about these releases and apply them promptly to address known vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-21829. Regularly updating system software and conducting security assessments are vital components of a proactive security strategy.