CVE-2023-23858 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE record was published by SAP on February 14, 2023, highlighting a vulnerability in SAP NetWeaver AS for ABAP and ABAP Platform.

Understanding CVE-2023-23858

This vulnerability in SAP NetWeaver AS for ABAP and ABAP Platform versions 740 through 757 allows an unauthenticated attacker to exploit insufficient input validation. By sending a crafted URL to a user and tricking them into clicking it, the attacker can direct the user outside SAP, potentially leading to the disclosure of sensitive data and impacting the confidentiality and integrity of the application.

What is CVE-2023-23858?

The CVE-2023-23858 vulnerability arises due to insufficient input validation in SAP NetWeaver AS for ABAP and ABAP Platform versions 740 through 757. This allows an unauthenticated attacker to manipulate a user into accessing SAP, leading to potential data exposure and integrity issues.

The Impact of CVE-2023-23858

The impact of this vulnerability is considered medium, with a CVSSv3.1 base score of 6.1. The confidentiality and integrity impact is rated as low, but the potential consequences involve the exploitation of sensitive data leading to compromised application security.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-23858

SAP NetWeaver AS for ABAP and ABAP Platform versions 740 through 757 are affected by this vulnerability, with an overall medium severity based on its CVSSv3.1 base score.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-79 (Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation, also known as 'Cross-site Scripting'), allowing an attacker to execute crafted URL attacks and compromise system security.

Affected Systems and Versions

SAP NetWeaver AS for ABAP and ABAP Platform versions 740 through 757 are impacted by this vulnerability, exposing them to the risk of potential data breaches and unauthorized access.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of the CVE-2023-23858 vulnerability involves an unauthenticated attacker sending a specially crafted URL to a user, tricking them into clicking it. This action can lead the user to access SAP and inadvertently disclose sensitive information outside the SAP environment.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-23858 and mitigate its impact, immediate steps should be taken along with implementing long-term security practices and applying necessary patches and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Immediate steps include evaluating system configurations, restricting URL access, enhancing user awareness about phishing attacks, and monitoring user interactions to detect suspicious activities promptly.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing security awareness training, enforcing secure coding practices, conducting regular security assessments, and enhancing access controls are essential long-term security practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Applying the latest security patches and updates provided by SAP for SAP NetWeaver AS for ABAP and ABAP Platform is crucial to remediate CVE-2023-23858 and strengthen system defenses against potential exploits.