CVE-2023-6251 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE-2023-6251 concerns a Cross-site Request Forgery (CSRF) vulnerability in Checkmk versions less than 2.2.0p15, less than 2.1.0p37, and less than or equal to 2.0.0p39. The vulnerability allows an authenticated attacker to delete user-messages for individual users.

Understanding CVE-2023-6251

This section delves into the specifics of CVE-2023-6251, including the vulnerability description, impact, affected systems, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-6251?

The CVE-2023-6251 vulnerability involves a CSRF issue in Checkmk versions lower than 2.2.0p15, 2.1.0p37, and 2.0.0p39. An authenticated malicious actor can exploit this vulnerability to delete user-messages of specific users, posing a security risk to the affected systems.

The Impact of CVE-2023-6251

The impact of CVE-2023-6251 is classified as "LOW." The CVE identifies the CAPEC-62 Cross Site Request Forgery as the primary impact, highlighting the potential risks associated with CSRF attacks on affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-6251

This section provides a deeper insight into the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Checkmk versions less than 2.2.0p15, less than 2.1.0p37, and less than or equal to 2.0.0p39 enables authenticated attackers to perform Cross-site Request Forgery attacks, leading to the unauthorized deletion of user-messages for specific users within the system.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts Checkmk versions prior to 2.2.0p15, 2.1.0p37, and 2.0.0p39. Organizations using these versions are at risk of CSRF attacks that may result in the deletion of user-messages by malicious actors.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit CVE-2023-6251, an attacker needs to be authenticated within the Checkmk system. By leveraging the CSRF vulnerability present in the affected versions of Checkmk, malicious users can manipulate user-messages to execute unauthorized deletions, potentially disrupting system functionality and compromising user data.

Mitigation and Prevention

Mitigating the risks posed by CVE-2023-6251 involves taking immediate action and implementing long-term security practices to safeguard systems against CSRF vulnerabilities.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations should upgrade their Checkmk installations to versions equal to or higher than 2.2.0p15, 2.1.0p37, and 2.0.0p39 to patch the vulnerability and prevent CSRF attacks.
Users must remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to unauthorized deletion of user-messages to system administrators for investigation.

Long-Term Security Practices

To enhance overall system security and prevent similar vulnerabilities:

Regularly update software and apply security patches to mitigate potential risks.
Conduct security assessments and audits to identify and address security gaps proactively.
Educate users on safe browsing practices and security awareness to prevent successful CSRF attacks.

Patching and Updates

Checkmk users are advised to refer to the official patch released by the vendor to address the CSRF vulnerability in affected versions. By promptly applying patches and staying up-to-date with security updates, organizations can fortify their defenses against CSRF exploits and enhance overall system security.