CVE-2023-21973 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2023-21973, a vulnerability affecting Oracle iProcurement.

Understanding CVE-2023-21973

CVE-2023-21973 is an easily exploitable vulnerability that allows a low privileged attacker with network access via HTTP to compromise Oracle iProcurement. Successful attacks require human interaction from a person other than the attacker. While the vulnerability specifically impacts Oracle iProcurement, it may also significantly affect additional products. Unauthorized update, insert, or delete access to some of the Oracle iProcurement accessible data, as well as unauthorized read access to a subset of the data, can result from successful attacks.

What is CVE-2023-21973?

The vulnerability lies in the Oracle iProcurement product of Oracle E-Business Suite, specifically in the E-Content Manager Catalog component. Supported versions that are affected by this vulnerability range from 12.2.3 to 12.2.12. The CVSS 3.1 Base Score for this vulnerability is 5.4, with impacts on both confidentiality and integrity.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21973

The impact of CVE-2023-21973 can lead to unauthorized access and manipulation of Oracle iProcurement data by attackers with low privileges and network access via HTTP. Successful exploitation may compromise data integrity and confidentiality, affecting the overall security of the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21973

This section delves into the specific technical details related to the CVE-2023-21973 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows a low privileged attacker to exploit Oracle iProcurement via network access through HTTP, leading to unauthorized data access and manipulation. Human interaction is necessary for successful attacks, and the scope extends beyond Oracle iProcurement to impact other products.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects the Oracle iProcurement product within the Oracle E-Business Suite, specifically versions 12.2.3 to 12.2.12. Users utilizing these versions are at risk of exploitation by threat actors.

Exploitation Mechanism

Successful exploitation of CVE-2023-21973 involves a low privileged attacker leveraging network access through HTTP to compromise Oracle iProcurement. Human interaction is needed for the attacker to carry out unauthorized actions on the system.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard systems from the risks associated with CVE-2023-21973, implementing immediate steps and adopting long-term security practices is crucial.

Immediate Steps to Take

Immediately applying patches provided by Oracle to address this vulnerability is essential. Additionally, restricting network access and user privileges can help mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly updating and monitoring the Oracle iProcurement system, enforcing strong authentication mechanisms, conducting security assessments, and educating users on safe practices are integral for long-term security.

Patching and Updates

Oracle releases security patches periodically to address vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-21973. It is imperative for organizations to stay informed about updates and promptly apply them to ensure system security and resilience.