CVE-2023-46138 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2023-46138, which involves the exposure of the JumpServer default admin user email, impacting versions prior to 3.8.0.

Understanding CVE-2023-46138

This section delves into the vulnerability found in JumpServer, an open-source bastion host and security audit system, leading to a potential email leak in the default admin user login process.

What is CVE-2023-46138?

CVE-2023-46138 is a security flaw in JumpServer versions prior to 3.8.0, where the default admin user's email domain, 'mycompany.com,' could potentially be registered in the future, affecting password reset functionality.

The Impact of CVE-2023-46138

The vulnerability poses a low availability impact but highlights a weak password recovery mechanism for forgotten passwords, potentially compromising user accounts.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-46138

In-depth technical aspects of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism are discussed below.

Vulnerability Description

Prior to version 3.8.0, JumpServer uses the default email 'admin[@]mycompany[.]com' for initial admin users, where password resets are conducted via email. A future registration of the 'mycompany.com' domain could impact password reset functionality, addressed in version 3.8.0 by changing the domain to 'example.com.'

Affected Systems and Versions

JumpServer versions below 3.8.0 are affected by this vulnerability, emphasizing the importance of updating to version 3.8.0 or manually changing the default email domain to 'example.com' for mitigation.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of this vulnerability involves the potential registration of the 'mycompany.com' domain, enabling malicious actors to intercept password reset emails and gain unauthorized access to JumpServer accounts.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover the necessary steps to mitigate the CVE-2023-46138 vulnerability and enhance the security of JumpServer installations.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to upgrade to JumpServer version 3.8.0 to fix the default admin email domain issue. Alternatively, manually changing the default email domain to 'example.com' can also mitigate the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong password policies, conduct regular security audits, and stay informed about software updates to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and patch releases from JumpServer to address known vulnerabilities and enhance the overall security posture.