CVE-2023-23856 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE-2023-23856 relates to a vulnerability found in SAP BusinessObjects Business Intelligence (Web Intelligence UI) version 430, where certain calls return JSON with the wrong content type in the header of the response. This issue could potentially expose custom applications that directly call the JSP of Web Intelligence DHTML to XSS attacks, leading to a low impact on the integrity of the application.

Understanding CVE-2023-23856

This section will cover what CVE-2023-23856 is and its impact, along with the technical details and mitigation strategies associated with this vulnerability.

What is CVE-2023-23856?

The vulnerability in SAP BusinessObjects Business Intelligence (Web Intelligence UI) version 430 exposes custom applications to cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks due to incorrect content type in the JSON response header. Successful exploitation can result in a low impact on application integrity.

The Impact of CVE-2023-23856

The impact of this vulnerability could lead to XSS attacks on custom applications that directly call the JSP of Web Intelligence DHTML in version 430 of SAP BusinessObjects Business Intelligence. While the impact is rated as low in terms of integrity compromise, the potential for unauthorized access and data manipulation exists.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-23856

In this section, we will delve into the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism associated with CVE-2023-23856.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from calls returning JSON with incorrect content type in the header of the response in SAP BusinessObjects Business Intelligence (Web Intelligence UI) version 430, creating an opportunity for XSS attacks on custom applications.

Affected Systems and Versions

SAP BusinessObjects Business Intelligence (Web Intelligence UI) version 430 is specifically affected by this vulnerability, potentially impacting any custom applications that directly interact with the JSP of Web Intelligence DHTML.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of this vulnerability involves leveraging the incorrect content type in the JSON response to inject malicious scripts into custom applications that call the JSP of Web Intelligence DHTML, ultimately leading to XSS attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-23856, organizations and users are advised to take immediate steps, adopt long-term security practices, and ensure prompt patching and updates to mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Implementing secure coding practices, conducting security assessments, and monitoring for any suspicious activities can help mitigate the immediate risk posed by CVE-2023-23856.

Long-Term Security Practices

Establishing comprehensive security policies, providing regular security training to developers, and continuously monitoring and updating systems can enhance the overall security posture and resilience of the organization against similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

It is crucial for users of SAP BusinessObjects Business Intelligence (Web Intelligence UI) version 430 to apply patches and updates released by the vendor promptly to address the vulnerability and safeguard their applications from potential exploitation.