CVE-2023-6847 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE record describes an improper authentication vulnerability identified in GitHub Enterprise Server that allowed bypass of Private Mode via a specific API request. The vulnerability affected all versions of GitHub Enterprise Server since 3.9 and was resolved in versions 3.9.7, 3.10.4, and 3.11.1.

Understanding CVE-2023-6847

This section delves deeper into the implications and technical aspects of CVE-2023-6847.

What is CVE-2023-6847?

CVE-2023-6847 refers to an improper authentication vulnerability in GitHub Enterprise Server that enabled an attacker to circumvent Private Mode by leveraging a specially crafted API request. This could grant unauthorized access to public repository data.

The Impact of CVE-2023-6847

The vulnerability, categorized as CAPEC-115 Authentication Bypass, possessed a high severity level with a CVSS base score of 7.5. It had a significant impact on confidentiality, potentially allowing attackers to gain access to sensitive information.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-6847

This section provides in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in GitHub Enterprise Server allowed malicious actors to bypass Private Mode using a carefully constructed API request, leading to unauthorized access to public repository data.

Affected Systems and Versions

GitHub Enterprise Server versions 3.9.0, 3.10.0, and 3.11.0 were impacted by this vulnerability, while the issue was addressed in versions 3.9.7, 3.10.4, and 3.11.1.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker would require network access to the GitHub Enterprise Server appliance configured in Private Mode. By sending a malicious API request, they could bypass authentication and access public repository data.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section focuses on steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-6847.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update their GitHub Enterprise Server to the patched versions, i.e., 3.9.7, 3.10.4, or 3.11.1 to eliminate the vulnerability.
Restrict network access to the Enterprise Server appliance to authorized personnel only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong authentication mechanisms and access controls to prevent unauthorized access.
Regularly monitor and audit API requests to detect any suspicious activity.

Patching and Updates

Continuous monitoring of security advisories from GitHub and timely implementation of patches and updates are crucial to safeguard systems against potential vulnerabilities.