CVE-2023-28441 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE identifies a security issue in smartCARS 3 software, where passwords are stored as plain text in error logs, potentially exposing sensitive information.

Understanding CVE-2023-28441

This vulnerability presents a risk for users of smartCARS 3 software versions prior to 0.5.9, where failed login attempts lead to passwords being stored in error logs.

What is CVE-2023-28441?

CVE-2023-28441 refers to the insertion of sensitive information into log files in smartCARS 3 software, leaving passwords vulnerable to exposure in error logs.

The Impact of CVE-2023-28441

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as high, with confidentiality and availability being significantly compromised. Attackers with local access could potentially access sensitive user passwords stored in error logs and exploit them maliciously.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-28441

This section dives into the specifics of the vulnerability, affected systems, and how it can be exploited.

Vulnerability Description

In smartCARS 3 versions prior to 0.5.9, when users experience failed login attempts, their passwords are stored in error logs in plain text format, making them easily accessible to unauthorized entities.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects users of invernyx's smartCARS-3-bugs software versions below 0.5.9. Users of these versions are at risk of having their passwords exposed in error logs due to failed login attempts.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker would need local access to the system running the affected smartCARS 3 software. By examining the error logs, the attacker could potentially retrieve user passwords in plain text format.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems against CVE-2023-28441 involves taking immediate steps to address the vulnerability and implementing long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users of smartCARS 3 software versions below 0.5.9 should delete the affected log file containing the plain text passwords. Additionally, ensure that users log in successfully to prevent passwords from being stored in error logs.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure password storage practices, regular software updates, and monitoring error logs for sensitive information can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Invernyx has released version 0.5.9 of smartCARS 3 software, which addresses this vulnerability. Users are strongly advised to update to this version or a later release to secure their systems against the password storage issue in error logs.