CVE-2023-41886 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

OpenRefine is a powerful free, open source tool for working with messy data. Version 3.7.4 and below are affected by an arbitrary file read vulnerability, allowing any unauthenticated user to read a file on a server. Learn more about CVE-2023-41886, its impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

Understanding CVE-2023-41886

OpenRefine is vulnerable to arbitrary file read in project import with MySQL JDBC URL attack.

What is CVE-2023-41886?

CVE-2023-41886 highlights an arbitrary file read vulnerability in OpenRefine versions <= 3.7.4, allowing unauthorized users to access server files.

The Impact of CVE-2023-41886

The vulnerability poses a high severity risk, with confidentiality impact rated as high, potentially exposing sensitive information to unauthorized parties.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-41886

The vulnerability is characterized by an improper neutralization of special elements used in an SQL command (SQL Injection), with a CVSS base score of 7.5.

Vulnerability Description

Prior to version 3.7.5, any unauthenticated user can exploit the vulnerability to read files on the server, compromising data confidentiality.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: OpenRefine
Product: OpenRefine
Affected Versions: <= 3.7.4

Exploitation Mechanism

The attack complexity is low, with network attack vector and no required privileges, enhancing the exploitability of this vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

Take immediate steps to secure your systems and follow long-term security practices to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-41886.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade OpenRefine to version 3.7.5 to address the vulnerability and prevent unauthorized file access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software to patch vulnerabilities and enhance overall system security.
Implement access controls and authentication mechanisms to restrict unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches promptly, and stay informed about security advisories and updates from OpenRefine.