CVE-2023-31139 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2023-31139 impacting DHIS2 Core versions < 2.37.9.1, < 2.38.3.1, < 2.39.1.2. Upgrade to mitigate risks of unauthorized access via Personal Access Tokens.
This article provides an in-depth look into CVE-2023-31139, a vulnerability in DHIS2 Core related to unrestricted session cookies with Personal Access Tokens.
Understanding CVE-2023-31139
CVE-2023-31139 affects DHIS2 Core, specifically versions prior to 2.37.9.1, 2.38.3.1, and 2.39.1.2, where Personal Access Tokens generate unrestricted session cookies.
What is CVE-2023-31139?
DHIS2 Core, the service layer and Web API for DHIS2, may generate unrestricted session cookies leading to potential bypasses of access restrictions.
The Impact of CVE-2023-31139
This vulnerability could allow attackers to bypass access controls based on IP addresses or HTTP methods, compromising the security of DHIS2 implementations.
Technical Details of CVE-2023-31139
DHIS2 implementers are advised to upgrade to versions 2.37.9.1, 2.38.3.1, or 2.39.1.2 to mitigate the risk. Additionally, extra access control validations can be implemented on a reverse proxy.
Vulnerability Description
Prior to versions 2.37.9.1, 2.38.3.1, and 2.39.1.2, DHIS2 Core generates unrestricted session cookies via Personal Access Tokens, potentially leading to access restriction bypasses.
Affected Systems and Versions
DHIS2 Core versions < 2.37.9.1, < 2.38.3.1, and < 2.39.1.2 are affected by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access by leveraging the generation of unrestricted session cookies with Personal Access Tokens.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2023-31139, DHIS2 implementers should upgrade to the recommended versions and consider implementing additional access control validations.
Immediate Steps to Take
Upgrade DHIS2 Core to versions 2.37.9.1, 2.38.3.1, or 2.39.1.2 immediately to mitigate the risk of unauthorized access through unrestricted session cookies.
Long-Term Security Practices
Regularly update DHIS2 Core to the latest supported versions and monitor for any security advisories to stay informed of potential vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security releases and promptly apply patches provided by DHIS2 to ensure the ongoing security of your system.