CVE-2023-22936 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE involves an issue in Splunk Enterprise versions below 8.1.13, 8.2.10, and 9.0.4 where the 'search_listener' parameter in a search allows for blind server-side request forgery (SSRF) by an authenticated user. The initiator of the request cannot view the response unless there is an additional vulnerability present within the environment.

Understanding CVE-2023-22936

This section will delve into the details of CVE-2023-22936 to provide a comprehensive understanding of the vulnerability.

What is CVE-2023-22936?

CVE-2023-22936 refers to a blind server-side request forgery (SSRF) vulnerability in Splunk Enterprise, affecting specific versions of the software.

The Impact of CVE-2023-22936

The vulnerability allows an authenticated user to perform SSRF via the 'search_listener' parameter, potentially leading to unauthorized access or data leakage.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-22936

In this section, we will explore the technical specifics of CVE-2023-22936 to understand its implications better.

Vulnerability Description

The SSRF vulnerability in Splunk Enterprise versions prior to 8.1.13, 8.2.10, and 9.0.4 enables attackers to manipulate the 'search_listener' parameter to trigger unintended server-side requests.

Affected Systems and Versions

Splunk Enterprise versions 8.1, 8.2, and 9.0 are affected by this vulnerability, exposing systems running these versions to potential SSRF attacks.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the 'search_listener' parameter in a search, authenticated users can initiate blind SSRF attacks, posing a risk to the integrity and confidentiality of the system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Mitigating the risks associated with CVE-2023-22936 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices to safeguard vulnerable systems.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Splunk Enterprise to versions 8.1.13, 8.2.10, or 9.0.4 to address the SSRF vulnerability.
Implement strict access controls and monitoring to detect and prevent unauthorized SSRF attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and update software versions to stay protected against known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address potential weaknesses proactively.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Splunk and apply patches promptly to secure systems against emerging threats. Regularly review and enhance security configurations to reduce the risk of SSRF exploits in Splunk Enterprise.