CVE-2023-29516 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A critical vulnerability, CVE-2023-29516, has been discovered in the XWiki Platform, potentially allowing for code injection from view rights on XWiki.AttachmentSelector. This can result in unauthorized execution of code and compromise of the XWiki installation.

Understanding CVE-2023-29516

This section will delve into the details of the CVE-2023-29516 vulnerability, its impact, technical aspects, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-29516?

CVE-2023-29516 involves improper neutralization of special elements in output used by a downstream component, leading to code injection. Specifically, any user with view rights on

XWiki.AttachmentSelector

can execute arbitrary code in XWiki, posing a severe security risk.

The Impact of CVE-2023-29516

The impact of this vulnerability is critical, with a CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.9 (Critical). It can result in high confidentiality and integrity impact, potentially granting unauthorized access to the XWiki installation.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-29516

Let's explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-29516, including the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

XWiki Platform, a generic wiki platform, allows for arbitrary code execution due to improper escaping in the "Cancel and return to page" button. This can provide attackers with full access to the XWiki installation, posing a severe security threat.

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. Users of these versions are advised to take immediate action to address the security risk.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by leveraging view rights on

XWiki.AttachmentSelector

to inject malicious Groovy, Python, or Velocity code, thereby gaining unauthorized access to the XWiki installation.

Mitigation and Prevention

To protect your systems from the CVE-2023-29516 vulnerability, follow the mitigation and prevention measures outlined below.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update XWiki Platform to the patched versions: 13.10.11, 14.4.8, 14.10.1, or 15.0-rc-1 to address the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor security advisories and patches released by XWiki to stay informed about potential vulnerabilities and updates.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches promptly to ensure that your XWiki Platform is protected against known security threats.