CVE-2023-23920 : What You Need to Know

This CVE record highlights an untrusted search path vulnerability present in Node.js versions prior to 19.6.1, 18.14.1, 16.19.1, and 14.21.3. This vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker to search for and potentially load ICU data when operating with elevated privileges.

Understanding CVE-2023-23920

This section delves into the details of CVE-2023-23920, shedding light on the nature of the vulnerability and its potential impact on affected systems.

What is CVE-2023-23920?

CVE-2023-23920 is an untrusted search path vulnerability found in Node.js versions below 19.6.1, 18.14.1, 16.19.1, and 14.21.3. It allows attackers to search for and potentially load ICU data while operating with elevated privileges, posing a security risk to affected systems.

The Impact of CVE-2023-23920

The impact of CVE-2023-23920 could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive ICU data by malicious actors with elevated privileges, potentially compromising the confidentiality and integrity of the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-23920

This section provides a comprehensive look into the technical aspects of CVE-2023-23920, including vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from an untrusted search path in Node.js versions prior to 19.6.1, 18.14.1, 16.19.1, and 14.21.3, allowing attackers to manipulate the search path and potentially load ICU data with elevated privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

Node.js versions affected by CVE-2023-23920 include those preceding 19.6.1, 18.14.1, 16.19.1, and 14.21.3, leaving systems running on these versions susceptible to the vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the untrusted search path vulnerability within Node.js to navigate the system's directories and gain unauthorized access to ICU data, leveraging elevated privileges to carry out malicious activities.

Mitigation and Prevention

In order to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-23920, certain immediate steps need to be taken, alongside implementing long-term security practices and applying necessary patches and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

System administrators are advised to update Node.js to versions 19.6.1, 18.14.1, 16.19.1, or 14.21.3 to address the vulnerability promptly and prevent potential exploitation by threat actors.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices, performing regular security audits, and maintaining a robust access control mechanism can bolster the overall security posture of the system and reduce the likelihood of similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Regularly applying security patches and updates released by Node.js is crucial to ensure that known vulnerabilities are promptly addressed, minimizing the risk of exploitation and enhancing the security resilience of the system.