CVE-2023-39438 : Security Advisory and Response

A missing authorization check in CLA Assistant allows arbitrary authenticated users to perform unauthorized operations through the API, posing a high risk.

Understanding CVE-2023-39438

This CVE involves a vulnerability in CLA Assistant that enables authenticated users to carry out unauthorized operations via the API.

What is CVE-2023-39438?

The vulnerability in CLA Assistant permits arbitrary authenticated users to read CLA information, including signatories' data and custom fields, as well as modify or delete CLA configurations for repositories or organizations.

The Impact of CVE-2023-39438

The impact is severe as it allows unauthorized users to access and modify sensitive CLA information, posing confidentiality and integrity risks.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-39438

The vulnerability is rated with a CVSS base score of 8.1, indicating a high severity level with low attack complexity and low privileges required.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from a missing authorization check that lets authenticated users perform unauthorized operations through the CLA Assistant API.

Affected Systems and Versions

CLA Assistant versions up to 2.13.0 are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Arbitrary authenticated users can exploit this vulnerability by executing specific additional steps to access and manipulate CLA information.

Mitigation and Prevention

Given the severity of the vulnerability, immediate action and long-term security practices are crucial to mitigate the risks.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update CLA Assistant to version 2.14.0 or newer to patch the vulnerability and prevent unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict access controls, regularly monitor API activities, and educate users on secure practices to enhance overall system security.

Patching and Updates

Regularly apply software updates and security patches to stay protected against emerging vulnerabilities.