CVE-2023-5421 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE was published on October 16, 2023, with a base score of 3.5, indicating a low severity level. It affects OTRS versions prior to 7.0.47 and 8.0.37, as well as ((OTRS)) Community Edition up to 6.0.34. The vulnerability allows an attacker with specific privileges to execute JavaScript code by manipulating the CustomerID field. The impact is classified under CAPEC-63 Cross-Site Scripting (XSS).

Understanding CVE-2023-5421

This vulnerability in OTRS and ((OTRS)) Community Edition allows an attacker to run malicious JavaScript code by exploiting a specific privilege within the application.

What is CVE-2023-5421?

An attacker with access to OTRS as a user with the ability to create and modify customer user data can manipulate the CustomerID field to execute JavaScript code immediately after the data is saved. This issue is triggered when the configuration setting for AdminCustomerUser::UseAutoComplete has been altered.

The Impact of CVE-2023-5421

The impact of this vulnerability is categorized as a low severity level, allowing the attacker to execute XSS (Cross-Site Scripting) attacks within the affected versions of OTRS and ((OTRS)) Community Edition.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-5421

This CVE has been classified under CWE-20 for Improper Input Validation. The CVSS v3.1 score is 3.5 with LOW severity. The attack complexity is LOW, privileges required are HIGH, and user interaction is not required for exploitation.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper input validation, allowing an attacker to inject and execute JavaScript code through the CustomerID field manipulation.

Affected Systems and Versions

OTRS versions prior to 7.0.47 and 8.0.37
((OTRS)) Community Edition up to version 6.0.34

Exploitation Mechanism

By manipulating the CustomerID field, an attacker can exploit the AdminCustomerUser::UseAutoComplete configuration to execute malicious JavaScript code.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2023-5421.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to OTRS version 7.0.47 or 8.0.37 to patch the vulnerability.
Consider switching off the AdminCustomerUser::UseAutoComplete configuration setting to prevent exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch OTRS systems to stay protected against known vulnerabilities.
Educate users on best practices to prevent XSS attacks and unauthorized code execution.

Patching and Updates

Ensure prompt installation of security patches and updates provided by OTRS to address CVE-2023-5421 effectively.