CVE-2023-40017 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

GeoNode is an open source platform that facilitates the creation, sharing, and collaborative use of geospatial data. In versions 3.2.0 through 4.1.2, a Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF) vulnerability has been identified. This vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2023-40017, enables attackers to perform port scans on internal hosts and request information from them.

Understanding CVE-2023-40017

GeoNode Server Side Request Forgery vulnerability

What is CVE-2023-40017?

CVE-2023-40017 is a high severity vulnerability in GeoNode versions 3.2.0 through 4.1.2 that allows malicious actors to conduct server-side request forgery attacks, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information.

The Impact of CVE-2023-40017

The impact of this vulnerability is classified as high severity. Attackers can exploit this SSRF vulnerability to scan internal hosts and retrieve sensitive data, posing a significant risk to the confidentiality of the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-40017

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the inadequate protection of the endpoint

/proxy/?url=

in GeoNode versions 3.2.0 through 4.1.2 against server-side request forgery. This oversight allows threat actors to manipulate requests and interact with internal systems.

Affected Systems and Versions

GeoNode versions 3.2.0 through 4.1.2 are affected by this vulnerability. Systems running these versions are at risk of exploitation by malicious entities aiming to leverage the SSRF weakness.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the SSRF vulnerability by sending crafted requests through the

/proxy/?url=

endpoint, tricking the server into making inadvertent requests to internal systems, leading to information disclosure and potential security breaches.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

To mitigate the CVE-2023-40017 vulnerability, users are advised to apply the available patch provided at commit a9eebae80cb362009660a1fd49e105e7cdb499b9. It is crucial to promptly update affected GeoNode instances to prevent exploitation of this SSRF issue.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing strict input validation mechanisms and access controls, as well as security configurations, can help prevent SSRF attacks and enhance the overall security posture of GeoNode deployments.

Patching and Updates

Regularly updating GeoNode to the latest secure versions and promptly applying patches released by the vendor is essential to protect against known vulnerabilities and ensure the integrity of geospatial data.