CVE-2023-31211 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This article provides detailed information on CVE-2023-31211, a vulnerability in Checkmk that allows attackers to use locked credentials.

Understanding CVE-2023-31211

CVE-2023-31211 is a security vulnerability in Checkmk versions prior to 2.2.0p18, 2.1.0p38, and 2.0.0p39 that enables attackers to utilize locked credentials for authentication.

What is CVE-2023-31211?

The vulnerability lies in the insufficient authentication flow in affected versions of Checkmk, allowing unauthorized users to authenticate using locked credentials.

The Impact of CVE-2023-31211

This vulnerability has a high severity level with a base score of 8.8, as per CVSS:3.1 metrics. The impact is categorized under CAPEC-114: Authentication Abuse.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-31211

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

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Checkmk versions before 2.2.0p18, 2.1.0p38, and 2.0.0p39 allows attackers to authenticate using locked credentials due to insufficient authentication flow.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected systems include Checkmk versions 2.2.0, 2.1.0, and 2.0.0, with patch levels less than 2.2.0p18, 2.1.0p38, and 2.0.0p39, respectively.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by leveraging the faulty authentication flow in the specified versions of Checkmk to gain unauthorized access using locked credentials.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn about the steps you can take to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2023-31211 and prevent potential unauthorized access.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Checkmk to versions 2.2.0p18, 2.1.0p38, or 2.0.0p39 to patch the vulnerability
Review and revoke any locked credentials to prevent unauthorized authentication

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and maintain software to stay protected against known vulnerabilities
Implement multi-factor authentication and strong password policies to enhance security

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by Checkmk to address vulnerabilities and enhance system security.