CVE-2023-27269 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE-2023-27269 was published by SAP on March 14, 2023, and affects the NetWeaver Application Server for ABAP and ABAP Platform. It allows attackers with non-administrative authorizations to exploit a directory traversal flaw, potentially overwriting critical OS files without being able to read data.

Understanding CVE-2023-27269

This vulnerability impacts the SAP NetWeaver Application Server for ABAP and ABAP Platform, specifically versions 700, 701, 702, 731, 740, 750, 751, 752, 753, 754, 755, 756, 757, and 791. Attackers can exploit a directory traversal flaw in an available service to overwrite system files, leading to system unavailability.

What is CVE-2023-27269?

CVE-2023-27269 is a vulnerability in SAP's NetWeaver Application Server for ABAP and ABAP Platform that allows attackers to overwrite critical system files by exploiting a directory traversal flaw, without the ability to read data.

The Impact of CVE-2023-27269

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as critical with a CVSS base score of 9.6. It poses a high availability impact and high integrity impact on affected systems. The attack vector is through the network, with low attack complexity and privileges required.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-27269

This section provides more insights into the vulnerability for better understanding and mitigation procedures.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows non-administrative users to exploit a directory traversal flaw in SAP NetWeaver Application Server for ABAP and ABAP Platform, resulting in the ability to overwrite system files without reading data.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected systems include versions 700, 701, 702, 731, 740, 750, 751, 752, 753, 754, 755, 756, 757, and 791 of the SAP NetWeaver Application Server for ABAP and ABAP Platform.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the directory traversal flaw in an available service of the affected SAP systems to overwrite critical OS files, making the system inaccessible.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address and prevent the impact of CVE-2023-27269, the following actions can be taken:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by SAP promptly.
Implement strong access controls to restrict unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor system activity for any unauthorized access attempts.
Conduct security audits and assessments periodically to identify vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Keep the software up to date with the latest security patches and updates released by SAP to mitigate the risk of exploitation.