CVE-2023-27290 : What You Need to Know

This CVE-2023-27290 was published on March 3, 2023, by IBM, affecting the Observability with Instana product. The vulnerability allows an attacker within the network to access Docker based datastores without authentication, potentially leading to unauthorized read/write access.

Understanding CVE-2023-27290

This vulnerability impacts Docker based datastores for IBM Instana (IBM Observability with Instana 239-0 through 239-2, 241-0 through 241-2, and 243-0) by not requiring authentication, enabling attackers to gain unauthorized access.

What is CVE-2023-27290?

CVE-2023-27290 involves missing authentication for critical functions in IBM Observability with Instana, specifically impacting Docker based datastores. This vulnerability exposes datastores to unauthorized access within the network.

The Impact of CVE-2023-27290

The impact of CVE-2023-27290 is critical, with a CVSSv3.1 base severity score of 9.1 (CRITICAL). The vulnerability has a high impact on confidentiality and integrity, allowing attackers to potentially read/write data without authentication.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-27290

This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems and versions, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in IBM Observability with Instana allows attackers within the network to access Docker based datastores without requiring authentication, posing a significant security risk.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected versions include IBM Observability with Instana 239-0 through 239-2, 241-0 through 241-2, and 243-0. These versions do not enforce authentication for Docker based datastores, leaving them vulnerable to unauthorized access.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-27290 involves attackers within the network taking advantage of the lack of authentication requirements for Docker based datastores in IBM Observability with Instana, enabling them to access sensitive data.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address the vulnerability and enhance security, it is essential to implement immediate steps, adopt long-term security practices, and apply necessary patches and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations should consider implementing access controls, enforcing authentication mechanisms, and monitoring network activity to detect any unauthorized access attempts to Docker based datastores in IBM Observability with Instana.

Long-Term Security Practices

Establishing robust security protocols, conducting regular security audits, and providing security awareness training to personnel can help prevent similar vulnerabilities and enhance overall system security.

Patching and Updates

IBM has likely released patches or updates to address the authentication issue in affected versions of Observability with Instana. It is crucial for organizations to apply these patches promptly to mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2023-27290.