CVE-2023-46668 : Security Advisory and Response

Elastic Endpoint (v7.9.0 - v8.10.3) configured with debug logging may expose API keys in plaintext, allowing unauthorized access to user artifacts.

Understanding CVE-2023-46668

This vulnerability affects Elastic Endpoint versions 7.9.0 to 8.10.3, potentially exposing sensitive API keys in Elasticsearch due to misconfigured debug logging.

What is CVE-2023-46668?

CVE-2023-46668 relates to a security flaw in Elastic Endpoint versions 7.9.0 to 8.10.3. When debug logging is explicitly set in non-default configurations and Elastic Agent forwards logs to Elasticsearch, API keys are exposed, posing a risk of data manipulation.

The Impact of CVE-2023-46668

The impact of this vulnerability includes the exposure of Elastic Agent API keys in plaintext within Elasticsearch. Threat actors could exploit this to manipulate data and access sensitive user artifacts within Elastic Endpoint installations.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-46668

This section provides detailed technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from misconfigured debug logging in Elastic Endpoint versions 7.9.0 to 8.10.3, potentially leading to the exposure of API keys in plaintext within Elasticsearch.

Affected Systems and Versions

Elastic Endpoint versions 7.9.0 to 8.10.3 are affected by this vulnerability when debug logging is explicitly set.

Exploitation Mechanism

By configuring Elastic Endpoint with debug logging and simultaneously sending logs to Elasticsearch, API keys can be viewed in plaintext, enabling unauthorized access to user artifacts.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting your systems from CVE-2023-46668 is crucial for maintaining security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Immediately update affected Elastic Endpoint installations to a secure version that addresses the vulnerability.
Review and restrict access to API keys within Elasticsearch to prevent unauthorized use.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement least privilege access controls to limit exposure of sensitive information within systems.
Regularly monitor and audit logging configurations to ensure sensitive data is not inadvertently exposed.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates from Elastic and promptly apply patches to eliminate vulnerabilities.