CVE-2023-28443 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE-2023-28443 was published on March 23, 2023, by GitHub_M. It involves a vulnerability in Directus prior to version 9.23.3 where sensitive information can be inserted into log files, potentially allowing for unauthorized user impersonation.

Understanding CVE-2023-28443

Directus, a real-time API and App dashboard for managing SQL database content, is affected by a security flaw that could lead to the insertion of sensitive information into log files. This can result in unauthorized user impersonation, posing a risk to data confidentiality.

What is CVE-2023-28443?

The vulnerability identified in CVE-2023-28443, known as "Insertion of Sensitive Information into Log File (CWE-532)," allows attackers to access sensitive data, such as the

directus_refresh_token

, from log outputs. This information can then be misused to impersonate users without their consent.

The Impact of CVE-2023-28443

With a CVSSv3 base score of 4.2 (Medium Severity), this vulnerability has a high impact on confidentiality, potentially exposing sensitive user information. The attack complexity is low, and user interaction is required, but privileges required for exploitation are high.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-28443

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

Vulnerability Description

The issue in Directus versions prior to 9.23.3 lies in the improper redaction of the

directus_refresh_token

from log outputs. This oversight enables malicious actors to extract this token and abuse it for unauthorized user impersonation.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts Directus instances running versions below 9.23.3. Any installations that have not been updated to this version are at risk of data exposure and unauthorized access.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by accessing the unredacted

directus_refresh_token

present in the log outputs. By leveraging this token, they can impersonate legitimate users without requiring their consent, potentially leading to privacy breaches.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-28443 and safeguard against potential exploitation, organizations and users should take immediate action to mitigate the risk and prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Directus installations to version 9.23.3 or newer to apply the necessary patches and fixes that rectify the vulnerability.
Monitor log files and user activities for any suspicious behavior or unauthorized access attempts that could indicate exploitation of the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement proper access controls and data redaction mechanisms to prevent sensitive information from being exposed in log outputs.
Regularly review and update security protocols to address emerging threats and vulnerabilities in software applications like Directus.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and patches released by Directus to address vulnerabilities promptly. Timely updates and maintenance of software versions are crucial for maintaining a secure environment and protecting user data.