CVE-2023-28458 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE record outlines a security vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-28458, which was published on April 20, 2023. The vulnerability is associated with pretalx version 2.3.1 before 2.3.2, allowing for path traversal in HTML export. This issue enables organizers to trigger the overwriting of an arbitrary file with the standard pretalx 404 page content. The impact of this vulnerability could result in unauthorized access, data manipulation, or information disclosure.

Understanding CVE-2023-28458

This section provides an overview of CVE-2023-28458, focusing on the vulnerability, its impact, technical details, affected systems, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-28458?

CVE-2023-28458 is a vulnerability found in pretalx version 2.3.1 before 2.3.2, allowing for path traversal in HTML export. This vulnerability permits organizers to overwrite arbitrary files with the standard pretalx 404 page content.

The Impact of CVE-2023-28458

The impact of CVE-2023-28458 can be severe, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive files, data manipulation, or even information disclosure. Organizers utilizing pretalx versions susceptible to this vulnerability may be at risk of exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-28458

This section delves into the technical aspects of CVE-2023-28458, including vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and exploitation mechanisms.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in pretalx versions 2.3.1 before 2.3.2 allows for path traversal in HTML export, enabling organizers to overwrite arbitrary files with the standard pretalx 404 page content.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected system is pretalx version 2.3.1 before 2.3.2. Users utilizing these versions may be vulnerable to path traversal attacks in HTML export.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2023-28458 involves leveraging the path traversal vulnerability in pretalx versions 2.3.1 before 2.3.2 to overwrite arbitrary files with the standard pretalx 404 page content.

Mitigation and Prevention

In response to CVE-2023-28458, it is crucial for users to take immediate steps to mitigate the risk posed by this vulnerability and implement long-term security practices to prevent similar incidents.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations and individuals using pretalx versions 2.3.1 before 2.3.2 should update to the latest version, such as 2.3.2, which addresses the path traversal vulnerability and enhances the security of the system.

Long-Term Security Practices

To enhance overall security posture, it is recommended to regularly update software, implement access controls, conduct security assessments, and educate users on best security practices to prevent future vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Users are advised to apply patches provided by pretalx promptly. Updating to version 2.3.2 or a secure release eliminates the path traversal vulnerability in HTML export and safeguards systems from potential exploitation.