CVE-2023-6186 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2023-6186 impacting LibreOffice. Malicious actors can exploit this vulnerability to execute built-in macros without user awareness. Take immediate steps to update and prevent unauthorized script execution.
This CVE-2023-6186 concerns an issue in LibreOffice, developed by The Document Foundation, where insufficient macro permission validation allows an attacker to execute built-in macros without warning.
Understanding CVE-2023-6186
This vulnerability in LibreOffice enables an attacker to execute built-in macros without alerting the user. This can be exploited through hyperlinks with macro or similar built-in command targets, triggering execution without user intervention.
What is CVE-2023-6186?
The CVE-2023-6186 vulnerability in LibreOffice arises from inadequate validation of macro permissions, enabling malicious actors to run built-in macros without the user's knowledge. This threat is present in certain versions of LibreOffice.
The Impact of CVE-2023-6186
The impact of CVE-2023-6186 is significant, given that it allows attackers to trigger the execution of built-in macros without warning. This can result in unauthorized system access, data manipulation, or other malicious activities.
Technical Details of CVE-2023-6186
The vulnerability is rated with a CVSS v3.1 base score of 8.3, classifying it as high severity. The attack complexity is low, with adjacent network vector and high availability and integrity impact. User interaction is required for exploitation.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in LibreOffice arises from insufficient validation of macro permissions, which allows attackers to trigger built-in macros without user notification. This could lead to unauthorized execution of malicious scripts.
Affected Systems and Versions
The affected versions of LibreOffice include 7.5.0 to 7.5.8 and 7.6.0 to 7.6.3. Versions earlier than these may be vulnerable to the exploit due to insufficient macro permission validation.
Exploitation Mechanism
Malicious actors can exploit the CVE-2023-6186 vulnerability by crafting hyperlinks with macro or similar built-in command targets in documents. When the user activates these hyperlinks, the malicious macros are executed without any warning.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2023-6186, immediate mitigation steps should be taken to secure systems and prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users should update LibreOffice to versions 7.5.9 or 7.6.4, where the vulnerability has been patched. Additionally, users should exercise caution when interacting with hyperlinks in documents to prevent unauthorized script execution.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implementing secure coding practices, regularly updating software, and educating users on the risks associated with executing macros from unknown sources can enhance long-term security posture against such vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Regularly monitoring security advisories from LibreOffice and promptly applying patches and updates is crucial to protect against known vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-6186. Stay informed about security best practices to mitigate risks effectively.