CVE-2023-4501 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE-2023-4501 details an authentication bypass vulnerability in OpenText (Micro Focus) Enterprise Server, impacting various versions of Visual COBOL, COBOL Server, Enterprise Developer, and Enterprise Server. The vulnerability allows attackers to impersonate any user by exploiting LDAP-based authentication with certain configurations.

Understanding CVE-2023-4501

This section provides insights into what CVE-2023-4501 is about.

What is CVE-2023-4501?

The CVE-2023-4501 vulnerability in OpenText (Micro Focus) Enterprise Server enables attackers to bypass authentication using username and password credentials, allowing them to impersonate any user. This occurs in versions 7.0 patch updates 19 and 20, 8.0 patch updates 8 and 9, and 9.0 patch update 1, specifically when LDAP-based authentication is used with specific configurations.

The Impact of CVE-2023-4501

The impact of CVE-2023-4501, as classified under CAPEC-115 Authentication Bypass, results in a critical severity scenario with high confidentiality and integrity impacts, as well as high availability impact. This vulnerability poses a significant threat to affected systems and user data security.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-4501

This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows successful authentication with any valid username, irrespective of the password's correctness. Even an invalid username may succeed with any password, granting unauthorized access to attackers.

Affected Systems and Versions

Products impacted include Visual COBOL, COBOL Server, Enterprise Developer, and Enterprise Server with versions 7.0 patch updates 19 and 20, 8.0 patch updates 8 and 9, and 9.0 patch update 1, utilizing LDAP-based authentication with specific configurations.

Exploitation Mechanism

As of the latest information, there have been no reported exploits of this vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

Understanding how to mitigate and prevent CVE-2023-4501 is crucial to enhancing system security.

Immediate Steps to Take

To address the vulnerability, install the upcoming patch updates for each affected product: 7.0 Patch Update 21, 8.0 Patch Update 10, or 9.0 Patch Update 2. Additionally, hotfix overlays are available for common platforms or can be requested through OpenText Support.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust authentication protocols and regularly updating software patches contribute to long-term security practices to prevent such vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for and apply software updates and patches provided by OpenText to eliminate vulnerabilities and enhance system security. Contact OpenText Support for detailed instructions on applying patches and updates.