CVE-2023-45809 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability has been identified in Wagtail, an open source content management system built on Django, that allows disclosure of user names via admin bulk action views. Find out more details below.

Understanding CVE-2023-45809

This CVE, assigned to Wagtail, highlights the exposure of sensitive user information due to a flaw in the admin bulk action views.

What is CVE-2023-45809?

The vulnerability in Wagtail allows a user with limited-permission editor account to retrieve user display names by making a direct URL request to the admin view that handles bulk actions on user accounts. While no changes can be made, the error message discloses user account display names.

The Impact of CVE-2023-45809

The impact of this vulnerability is that an authenticated user within the Wagtail admin can view sensitive user information, potentially compromising user privacy and security.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-45809

The technical details of CVE-2023-45809 shed light on the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

Wagtail's vulnerability allows for the disclosure of user names through the admin bulk action views, even though no modifications can be made. By manipulating URL parameters, a user can access the display names of various users.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected systems include Wagtail versions prior to 4.1.9, between 5.0.0 and 5.0.5, and between 5.1.0 and 5.1.3. Users on these versions are at risk of exposing sensitive user information.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit this vulnerability, an authenticated user with limited permissions needs to make a direct URL request to the admin view handling bulk actions on user accounts, allowing them to view user display names.

Mitigation and Prevention

In light of CVE-2023-45809, users are encouraged to take immediate steps to secure their systems and prevent unauthorized access to user information.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should upgrade to the patched versions released by Wagtail, including versions 4.1.8, 5.0.5, 5.1.3, and consider transitioning to the forthcoming Wagtail 5.2 release candidate.

Long-Term Security Practices

It is essential for organizations using Wagtail to adopt a proactive approach to security, implement access controls, and regularly update their systems to safeguard against similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitoring for security updates and promptly applying patches provided by Wagtail is crucial to maintaining a secure environment.