CVE-2023-22940 : What You Need to Know

This CVE record details a vulnerability in Splunk Enterprise versions below 8.1.13, 8.2.10, and 9.0.4, where aliases of the 'collect' search processing language (SPL) command could allow data exposure to a summary index accessible by unprivileged users.

Understanding CVE-2023-22940

This section provides an overview of the vulnerability's nature and impact on affected systems.

What is CVE-2023-22940?

The vulnerability in Splunk Enterprise arises from the lack of designation of certain aliases of the 'collect' SPL command as safeguarded commands. This oversight enables the exposing of data to a summary index that can be accessed by users with lower privileges. The exploit requires a higher privileged user to execute a request within their browser and specifically impacts instances with Splunk Web enabled.

The Impact of CVE-2023-22940

The vulnerability poses a medium severity risk (CVSS base score: 6.3) and could potentially lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data by unprivileged users. Exploitation of this issue could compromise the confidentiality of data stored within the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-22940

Delving into the specifics of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows unprivileged users to access data in summary indexes due to the insufficient safeguarding of certain 'collect' SPL command aliases in Splunk Enterprise versions below 8.1.13, 8.2.10, and 9.0.4.

Affected Systems and Versions

Splunk Enterprise versions below 8.1.13, 8.2.10, and 9.0.4.
Splunk Cloud Platform versions less than 9.0.2212.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit this vulnerability, a higher privileged user must initiate a request within their browser in instances where Splunk Web is enabled. Unprivileged users can leverage this to access data in summary indexes, bypassing safeguard measures.

Mitigation and Prevention

Outlined strategies to address and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2023-22940.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update affected Splunk Enterprise instances to versions 8.1.13, 8.2.10, or 9.0.4 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Restrict access to Splunk Web to authorized personnel only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit access to sensitive data within Splunk.
Implement least privilege principles to restrict user access based on job roles.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Splunk and promptly apply relevant patches and updates to maintain a secure Splunk environment.