CVE-2018-17247 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

Versions 6.5.0 and 6.5.1 of Elasticsearch Security have a vulnerability in the find_file_structure API of Machine Learning, allowing unauthorized access to local files.

Understanding CVE-2018-17247

Elasticsearch versions 6.5.0 and 6.5.1 are affected by an XXE flaw in the Machine Learning component, potentially leading to information disclosure.

What is CVE-2018-17247?

The vulnerability in the find_file_structure API of Machine Learning in Elasticsearch versions 6.5.0 and 6.5.1 allows attackers to access local files by sending a customized request.

The Impact of CVE-2018-17247

Exploiting this flaw could result in unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data stored on the Elasticsearch node, posing a risk of exposing restricted information.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-17247

Elasticsearch versions 6.5.0 and 6.5.1 are susceptible to an XXE vulnerability in the find_file_structure API.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows attackers to access local files on the Elasticsearch node by exploiting the find_file_structure API in the Machine Learning component.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Elasticsearch
Vendor: Elastic
Versions: 6.5.0 and 6.5.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can send a specially crafted request to the find_file_structure API, potentially leaking the contents of local files.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take:

Apply security patches provided by Elastic to address the vulnerability.
Restrict network access to Elasticsearch to trusted sources only. Long-Term Security Practices:
Regularly update Elasticsearch to the latest versions to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation to limit exposure of Elasticsearch to external threats.
Monitor Elasticsearch logs for any suspicious activities.
Educate users on secure coding practices to prevent exploitation of vulnerabilities.
Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify and address security gaps.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that you apply the security updates released by Elastic for Elasticsearch versions 6.5.0 and 6.5.1 to protect your systems from this vulnerability.