CVE-2023-28111 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE identifier pertains to a vulnerability in the Discourse platform that allows attackers to bypass server-side request forgery (SSRF) protection using IPv4-mapped IPv6 addresses.

Understanding CVE-2023-28111

This section will delve into the details of CVE-2023-28111 to help users understand the nature and impact of this vulnerability.

What is CVE-2023-28111?

Discourse, an open-source discussion platform, was found to have a vulnerability that allowed attackers to bypass server-side request forgery (SSRF) protection for private IPv4 addresses by utilizing an IPv4-mapped IPv6 address. This loophole existed in versions prior to 3.1.0.beta3 of the

beta

and

tests-passed

branches of Discourse. The issue has been addressed in the latest versions of Discourse, including 3.1.0.beta3 of the affected branches. No known workarounds are available for this vulnerability.

The Impact of CVE-2023-28111

The impact of CVE-2023-28111 is categorized as medium severity with a base score of 5.7. The confidentiality impact is rated as high, while availability impact is marked as none. Attack complexity is classified as low, with low privileges required for exploitation. User interaction is necessary for successful exploitation, and the attack vector is through the network.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-28111

This section will provide a deeper technical insight into the vulnerability and its implications on affected systems and versions.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Discourse allows attackers to bypass server-side request forgery (SSRF) protection for private IPv4 addresses by leveraging IPv4-mapped IPv6 addresses. This could potentially lead to unauthorized access and information disclosure.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected systems include Discourse versions prior to 3.1.0.beta3 of the

beta

and

tests-passed

branches. Specifically, versions beta less than 3.1.0.beta3 and tests-passed less than 3.1.0.beta3 are vulnerable to this exploit.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by using IPv4-mapped IPv6 addresses to bypass the server-side request forgery (SSRF) protection implemented in affected versions of Discourse. This could result in unauthorized access to private IPv4 addresses.

Mitigation and Prevention

Understanding how to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2023-28111 vulnerability is crucial for ensuring the security of Discourse instances.

Immediate Steps to Take

It is recommended to update Discourse to the latest version, specifically version 3.1.0.beta3 of the

beta

and

tests-passed

branches, to mitigate the vulnerability. Regularly monitoring security advisories and applying patches promptly can help in preventing exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing strict access controls, conducting regular security assessments, and educating users about the risks of SSRF vulnerabilities can enhance the long-term security posture of Discourse installations. Employing network-level defenses and staying informed about emerging threats are also essential practices.

Patching and Updates

Keeping Discourse up-to-date with the latest security patches and version releases is crucial in addressing known vulnerabilities promptly. Regularly checking for updates and applying patches in a timely manner is vital for maintaining the integrity and security of Discourse instances.