CVE-2023-29514 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

XWiki Platform is a generic wiki platform offering runtime services for applications. This CVE involves a code injection vulnerability in the template provider administration in xwiki-platform. An attacker can execute code with programming rights, resulting in remote code execution. The vulnerability has been patched in specific versions, and users are strongly advised to upgrade to secure their systems.

Understanding CVE-2023-29514

This section provides an overview of the CVE-2023-29514 vulnerability, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-29514?

CVE-2023-29514 is a code injection vulnerability in the template provider administration of xwiki-platform. It allows a user with edit rights to execute unauthorized code with programming privileges, leading to remote code execution.

The Impact of CVE-2023-29514

The impact of this vulnerability is critical, with a CVSS base score of 10.0 (Critical). Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-29514

In this section, we delve into the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

XWiki Platform users with edit rights can execute code with programming privileges, enabling remote code execution. The issue has been addressed in specific versions of the platform.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects xwiki-platform versions prior to 13.10.11, versions between 14.0.0 and 14.4.8, as well as versions between 14.5.0 and 14.10.1.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious code into the template provider administration in xwiki-platform, allowing them to execute unauthorized commands remotely.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines immediate steps to take, long-term security practices, and the importance of patching and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are strongly advised to upgrade their xwiki-platform installations to versions 13.10.11, 14.4.8, 14.10.1, or newer to mitigate the risk of exploitation. It is crucial to apply security patches promptly.

Long-Term Security Practices

To enhance system security, users should follow security best practices, such as restricting user permissions, implementing code reviews, and conducting regular security audits.

Patching and Updates

Regularly update xwiki-platform to the latest secure versions to protect against known vulnerabilities and ensure the overall security of the system.