CVE-2023-27487 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE record pertains to a vulnerability in the Envoy client that allows for the faking of the header

x-envoy-original-path

, potentially leading to security risks.

Understanding CVE-2023-27487

This vulnerability impacts the Envoy client versions prior to 1.26.0, 1.25.3, 1.24.4, 1.23.6, and 1.22.9, where attackers can bypass JSON Web Token (JWT) checks and forge fake original paths by manipulating the

x-envoy-original-path

header.

What is CVE-2023-27487?

Envoy is an open-source edge and service proxy created for cloud-native applications. In affected versions, the client does not remove the

x-envoy-original-path

header from requests sent by untrusted clients, allowing for the creation of forged headers that can be exploited for various malicious purposes.

The Impact of CVE-2023-27487

The vulnerability poses a high severity risk with a base score of 8.2 (CVSSv3.1), with high confidentiality impact and low integrity impact. Attackers can manipulate the fake

x-envoy-original-path

header for malicious activities and potential exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-27487

In this section, we delve into the specific technical aspects of the CVE, including the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows attackers to forge a trusted

x-envoy-original-path

header by bypassing JWT checks, potentially enabling them to exploit the system for unauthorized access or other malicious activities.

Affected Systems and Versions

Envoy versions >= 1.25.0, < 1.25.3
Envoy versions >= 1.24.0, < 1.24.4
Envoy versions >= 1.23.0, < 1.23.6
Envoy versions < 1.22.9

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can send requests containing manipulated

x-envoy-original-path

headers, exploiting the vulnerability in Envoy client versions prior to the patched releases.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-27487, immediate steps need to be taken to mitigate risks and prevent potential exploitation. Long-term security practices and regular patching are essential for maintaining a secure environment.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations should update affected Envoy versions to the patched releases (1.26.0, 1.25.3, 1.24.4, 1.23.6, and 1.22.9) to eliminate the vulnerability and enhance security measures.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing strict input validation mechanisms, monitoring header manipulations, and ensuring secure communication practices can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitoring security advisories and promptly applying patches and updates for software components like Envoy are crucial steps in maintaining a secure infrastructure and mitigating potential security risks.