CVE-2023-39231 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A detailed summary of the CVE-2023-39231 vulnerability affecting PingFederate using the PingOne MFA Integration Kit.

Understanding CVE-2023-39231

This section delves into the description, impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies related to CVE-2023-39231.

What is CVE-2023-39231?

The vulnerability in PingFederate using the PingOne MFA adapter allows a new MFA device to be paired without the required second factor authentication, potentially enabling threat actors to register their own malicious MFA device with victim user credentials.

The Impact of CVE-2023-39231

The impact of this vulnerability is categorized as a HIGH severity with potential confidentiality and integrity impacts due to an authentication bypass threat scenario.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-39231

This section outlines the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

PingFederate using the PingOne MFA adapter permits new MFA device pairing without necessitating second factor authentication, creating an entry point for threat actors to exploit user credentials.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects PingOne MFA Integration Kit versions prior to 2.2.1.

Exploitation Mechanism

Threat actors with knowledge of victim users' first factor credentials could potentially register their own MFA device through the exploit.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section provides guidance on immediate steps to take and long-term security practices to prevent exploitation of CVE-2023-39231.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should implement additional security measures, enforce multi-factor authentication, and monitor for any unauthorized device pairings.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regular security audits, employee training, and prompt application of security patches are essential for maintaining robust cybersecurity practices.

Patching and Updates

It is crucial to apply updates or patches provided by Ping Identity to address the vulnerability and enhance system security.