CVE-2023-26546 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE-2023-26546 was published on May 2, 2023, by MITRE for European Chemicals Agency IUCLID. It involves a vulnerability that allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code through Server Side Template Injection (SSTI) in version 6.27.6 or earlier of the IUCLID software. The attacker requires template manager permission to exploit this vulnerability.

Understanding CVE-2023-26546

This section will delve deeper into the nature of the CVE-2023-26546 vulnerability and its potential impact.

What is CVE-2023-26546?

CVE-2023-26546 is a security vulnerability found in European Chemicals Agency IUCLID before version 6.27.6. It enables remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code via Server Side Template Injection by using a specially crafted template file. Notably, the attacker must possess template manager permission to exploit this vulnerability.

The Impact of CVE-2023-26546

The impact of CVE-2023-26546 can be severe as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected system. This could lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential compromise of sensitive information stored within the IUCLID software.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-26546

In this section, we will explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-26546, including its vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in CVE-2023-26546 arises from a flaw in European Chemicals Agency IUCLID before version 6.27.6, which enables remote authenticated users to perform Server Side Template Injection through a maliciously crafted template file.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected software in this CVE is European Chemicals Agency IUCLID with versions prior to 6.27.6. Users operating on an older version are susceptible to this security risk.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit CVE-2023-26546, attackers need to be remote authenticated users with template manager permission. By leveraging Server Side Template Injection with a specially crafted template file, attackers can execute arbitrary code on the vulnerable system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Mitigating CVE-2023-26546 requires immediate action to address the vulnerability and prevent potential exploitation. Below are some steps to consider for mitigation and prevention.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to the latest version: Ensure European Chemicals Agency IUCLID is upgraded to version 6.27.6 or higher to mitigate the Server Side Template Injection vulnerability.
Restrict user permissions: Limit template manager permissions to authorized personnel only to reduce the risk of unauthorized code execution.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regular security updates: Stay informed about security patches and updates for the IUCLID software to protect against known vulnerabilities.
Employee awareness training: Educate users on best practices for maintaining software security and identifying potential threats to prevent exploitation.

Patching and Updates

Implement a proactive approach to software maintenance by promptly applying security patches and updates released by the European Chemicals Agency to safeguard against vulnerabilities like Server Side Template Injection in IUCLID.