CVE-2023-2819 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE-2023-2819 focuses on a stored cross-site scripting vulnerability found in the Sources UI of Proofpoint Threat Response/ Threat Response Auto Pull (PTR/TRAP), potentially enabling an authenticated administrator on an adjacent network to substitute the image file with an arbitrary MIME type. This could lead to the execution of arbitrary JavaScript code within an admin context. The vulnerability affects all versions prior to 5.10.0.

Understanding CVE-2023-2819

This section will delve into the details of CVE-2023-2819, its impact, technical aspects, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-2819?

CVE-2023-2819 is a stored cross-site scripting vulnerability in the Sources UI of Proofpoint Threat Response/ Threat Response Auto Pull (PTR/TRAP). It allows an authenticated administrator on an adjacent network to manipulate image files, resulting in potential arbitrary JavaScript code execution within an admin context.

The Impact of CVE-2023-2819

The vulnerability poses a medium-severity risk, with a CVSS v3.1 base score of 4.3. Attack vectors are primarily from an adjacent network, with high privileges required for exploitation. While the confidentiality and integrity impacts are low, the potential for arbitrary code execution in an admin context raises significant security concerns.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-2819

Let's explore the technical specifics of CVE-2023-2819, including vulnerability description, affected systems, versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from improper neutralization of input during web page generation, specifically related to cross-site scripting (CWE-79). By manipulating image files with arbitrary MIME types, an authenticated administrator can trigger the execution of malicious JavaScript code within an admin context.

Affected Systems and Versions

All versions of Proofpoint Threat Response/ Threat Response Auto Pull (PTR/TRAP) prior to 5.10.0 are susceptible to this stored cross-site scripting vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2023-2819 requires an authenticated administrator on an adjacent network to manipulate image files via the Sources UI. By substituting the image file with an arbitrary MIME type containing malicious JavaScript code, the attacker can achieve arbitrary code execution within an admin context.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard against CVE-2023-2819 and similar vulnerabilities, immediate steps, long-term security practices, and patching procedures are crucial.

Immediate Steps to Take

Administrators should update Proofpoint Threat Response/ Threat Response Auto Pull (PTR/TRAP) to version 5.10.0 or later to mitigate the risk of this stored cross-site scripting vulnerability. Additionally, restricting network access and user permissions can help limit the attack surface.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices, conducting regular security training for administrators, and performing routine security audits can enhance the overall resilience of the system against cross-site scripting and other security threats.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitoring for security advisories from Proofpoint and promptly applying patches and updates is essential in maintaining a secure environment and addressing known vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-2819. Engaging in proactive vulnerability management practices can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation.