CVE-2023-2784 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE-2023-2784 was assigned by Mattermost and published on June 16, 2023. It affects the Mattermost App Framework versions up to 7.9.3, allowing regular users to send install requests to the Apps due to a failure in verifying if the requester is a sysadmin or not.

Understanding CVE-2023-2784

This section provides insights into the nature of CVE-2023-2784 and its implications.

What is CVE-2023-2784?

CVE-2023-2784 indicates a vulnerability in the Mattermost App Framework where the system fails to verify whether the requester is a sysadmin before allowing

install

requests to the Apps, enabling regular users to send such install requests.

The Impact of CVE-2023-2784

The vulnerability has a CVSSv3.1 base score of 4.2 (Medium severity) with a high attack complexity, network-based attack vector, and low impact on availability. It allows unauthorized regular users to perform actions meant for sysadmins, potentially leading to unauthorized app installations.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-2784

This section delves into the technical aspects of CVE-2023-2784.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability, categorized as CWE-862 (Missing Authorization), arises from the failure to verify the sysadmin status before processing

install

requests to the Apps.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following versions of the Mattermost App Framework are impacted:

Versions up to 7.9.3 are affected.
Versions 7.10.0 and below are also affected.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending

install

requests to Apps without proper authorization, leveraging the lack of verification of sysadmin status.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems against CVE-2023-2784 involves taking immediate steps and implementing long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Mattermost Server to versions v7.8.5, v7.9.4, v7.10.1, or higher to mitigate the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch the software to address known vulnerabilities promptly.
Implement proper user access controls and authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized actions.

Patching and Updates

Mattermost has provided updates to address the vulnerability. Organizations using affected versions should apply the recommended patches promptly.