CVE-2023-25157 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE record involves unfiltered SQL Injection Vulnerabilities in GeoServer, an open-source software server written in Java used for sharing and editing geospatial data.

Understanding CVE-2023-25157

GeoServer, known for its support of the OGC Filter expression language and the OGC Common Query Language (CQL) within protocols like WFS, WMS, and WCS, is susceptible to unfiltered SQL Injection Vulnerabilities.

What is CVE-2023-25157?

The CVE-2023-25157 vulnerability in GeoServer results from improper neutralization of special elements used in an SQL command. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to inject malicious SQL commands and gain unauthorized access to the database.

The Impact of CVE-2023-25157

With a CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.8, this critical vulnerability has a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. It can lead to data breaches, data manipulation, and service disruptions.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-25157

This section covers the key technical details related to CVE-2023-25157.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the lack of proper filtering of SQL commands, allowing attackers to execute malicious SQL queries against the GeoServer database.

Affected Systems and Versions

GeoServer versions >=2.22.0 and <2.22.2 are affected by this vulnerability. Additionally, versions earlier than 2.21.4 are also vulnerable. Users operating on these versions are at risk and should take immediate action.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability remotely over the network without requiring any special privileges. The attack complexity is low, making it easier for malicious actors to take advantage of the issue.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-25157, users and administrators need to take proactive security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should upgrade GeoServer to version 2.21.4 or version 2.22.2 to address this vulnerability.
If upgrading is not immediately possible, users should disable the PostGIS Datastore encode functions setting to prevent misuse of certain functions and enable the PostGIS DataStore preparedStatements setting to mitigate the risk of the FeatureId misuse.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices, regular security audits, and staying informed about the latest security updates for GeoServer can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Staying up to date with security patches and software updates released by GeoServer is essential to ensure that known vulnerabilities are addressed promptly, reducing the risk of exploitation.