CVE-2023-23851 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE record was published by SAP on February 14, 2023, highlighting a vulnerability in SAP's Business Planning and Consolidation software versions 200 and 300. The vulnerability allows an attacker with business authorization to upload files, including web pages, without proper file format validation. This could potentially lead to unauthorized actions being performed on behalf of users who visit the malicious web pages, impacting the system's confidentiality and integrity.

Understanding CVE-2023-23851

This section will delve into the details of CVE-2023-23851, explaining the vulnerability, its impact, technical aspects, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-23851?

CVE-2023-23851 is a security vulnerability found in SAP Business Planning and Consolidation versions 200 and 300. It enables authorized attackers to upload various files, including web pages, without undergoing the necessary file format validation. This loophole can be exploited to execute unauthorized actions on the system, potentially compromising confidentiality and integrity.

The Impact of CVE-2023-23851

The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows attackers to manipulate the system by uploading malicious web pages and executing actions on behalf of other users without their consent. This can have severe implications on the overall security posture of the affected systems, affecting confidentiality and integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-23851

In this section, we will explore the technical details of CVE-2023-23851, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in SAP Business Planning and Consolidation versions 200 and 300 permits attackers with business authorization to upload files, such as web pages, without the necessary file format validation. This lack of validation opens doors for potential misuse, enabling unauthorized actions within the system.

Affected Systems and Versions

The impacted systems include SAP Business Planning and Consolidation versions 200 and 300. Users utilizing these versions are susceptible to the exploitation of this vulnerability and should take immediate action to mitigate the risk.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by uploading malicious web pages that other users may access. Upon accessing these pages, the attackers can execute actions on behalf of the users without their explicit consent, potentially breaching the system's confidentiality and integrity.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-23851 and mitigate its risks, certain steps can be taken to secure the affected systems and prevent unauthorized access and misuse.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations using SAP Business Planning and Consolidation versions 200 and 300 should implement access controls, restrict file upload capabilities, and conduct thorough file format validations to prevent unauthorized uploads. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks associated with visiting unverified web pages.

Long-Term Security Practices

In the long term, organizations should prioritize regular security audits, update their systems with the latest patches and security fixes, and enhance user awareness regarding safe browsing practices and file sharing protocols.

Patching and Updates

SAP may release patches or updates to address CVE-2023-23851. It is crucial for organizations to stay informed about these releases and promptly apply the necessary patches to mitigate the vulnerability's impact and enhance the overall security of their systems.