CVE-2023-29203 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides an in-depth analysis of CVE-2023-29203, a vulnerability that allows unauthenticated users to access information about hidden users on subwikis through uorgsuggest.vm.

Understanding CVE-2023-29203

CVE-2023-29203 poses a security risk in the XWiki platform, allowing unauthorized users to obtain details about hidden users from subwikis.

What is CVE-2023-29203?

The vulnerability, categorized as CWE-359: Exposure of Private Personal Information to an Unauthorized Actor, enables unauthenticated users to access usernames, first names, and last names of hidden users within the XWiki application.

The Impact of CVE-2023-29203

This vulnerability can lead to a breach of user privacy and confidentiality, as sensitive information of hidden users can be exposed to unauthorized parties, potentially causing harmful repercussions.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-29203

The following technical aspects outline the specifics of CVE-2023-29203:

Vulnerability Description

XWiki Commons, which are technical libraries shared across various XWiki projects, contain a flaw that allows unauthenticated users to list hidden user details through

uorgsuggest.vm

queries. The issue discloses user information limited to usernames and first and last names.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: XWiki
Product: XWiki Platform

Affected Versions:

= 13.9-rc-1, < 13.10.8

= 14.0-rc-1, < 14.4.3

= 14.5, < 14.7-rc-1

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by unauthenticated users by making specific requests to subwikis, allowing them to retrieve information about hidden users that should not be publicly accessible.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-29203 and enhance security measures, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to patched versions: XWiki 13.10.8, 14.4.3, or 14.7-rc1 to prevent unauthorized access to user details.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and apply security patches provided by XWiki to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and updates released by XWiki to stay protected from emerging threats.