CVE-2023-32183 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability has been discovered in the openSUSE Tumbleweed hawk2 package, CVE-2023-32183, that allows users with access to the hacluster to escalate privileges to root. This CVE has a high severity base score of 7.8.

Understanding CVE-2023-32183

This section delves into the details of the CVE-2023-32183 vulnerability, its impact, technical description, affected systems and versions, as well as mitigation and prevention strategies.

What is CVE-2023-32183?

The CVE-2023-32183 vulnerability is an Incorrect Default Permissions issue in the openSUSE Tumbleweed hawk2 package, enabling unauthorized users to elevate privileges to root. It affects openSUSE Tumbleweed systems.

The Impact of CVE-2023-32183

With a CVSS base score of 7.8 and high severity levels in confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts, CVE-2023-32183 poses a significant risk to affected systems. Attackers with access to the hacluster can exploit this vulnerability to gain unauthorized root access.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-32183

This section provides a deeper dive into the technical aspects of the CVE-2023-32183 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from Incorrect Default Permissions in the hawk2 package in openSUSE Tumbleweed. Unauthorized users within the hacluster group can abuse this flaw to escalate privileges to root.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts openSUSE Tumbleweed with the hawk2 package version 2.6.4+git.1682509819.1ff135ea-269.5. Other versions may not be affected.

Exploitation Mechanism

The local attack vector and low attack complexity make the exploitation of CVE-2023-32183 easier for threat actors. No user interaction is required for an attacker to exploit this vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2023-32183 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Administrators should restrict access to the hacluster group, monitor for unauthorized activities, and apply the necessary patches and updates promptly.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement a least privilege access policy, regularly review permissions, conduct security training for users, and maintain system integrity through continuous monitoring and security assessments.

Patching and Updates

OpenSUSE Tumbleweed users should install the latest updates provided by the vendor to patch the Incorrect Default Permissions vulnerability in the hawk2 package.