CVE-2023-6394 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE record was published by Red Hat on December 9, 2023, highlighting a vulnerability in Quarkus that could potentially allow attackers to access information and functionality beyond normal API permissions.

Understanding CVE-2023-6394

This CVE-2023-6394 relates to a flaw found in Quarkus, specifically in scenarios where requests are received over websockets without role-based permission specified on GraphQL operations. This results in Quarkus processing the request without authentication, even when the endpoint is supposed to be secured.

What is CVE-2023-6394?

The vulnerability in CVE-2023-6394 allows attackers to exploit the lack of authentication on GraphQL operations received over websockets in Quarkus. This oversight enables unauthorized access to information and functionality that should be restricted by API permissions.

The Impact of CVE-2023-6394

With a CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.4 (High), the impact of CVE-2023-6394 is significant. The vulnerability has a high impact on confidentiality and integrity, allowing attackers to bypass normal access controls and potentially compromise sensitive data and system functionality.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-6394

The vulnerability description involves a situation where Quarkus processes requests over websockets without proper authentication on GraphQL operations, leading to unauthorized access. The affected systems include the Red Hat build of Quarkus version 3.2.9.Final and the associated packages like quarkus-smallrye-graphql and graphql-java.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the mishandling of requests over websockets with no role-based permission specified on GraphQL operations in Quarkus. This allows attackers to circumvent authentication and gain unauthorized access to sensitive information and functionalities.

Affected Systems and Versions

The Red Hat build of Quarkus version 3.2.9.Final is confirmed to be affected by this vulnerability, along with specific packages like quarkus-smallrye-graphql and graphql-java. The versions prior to 3.6.0 are susceptible to exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting the lack of role-based permission verification on GraphQL operations received over websockets, attackers can trick Quarkus into processing requests without authentication, enabling unauthorized access to secure endpoints and sensitive data.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-6394, immediate actions must be taken to secure affected systems and prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Quarkus and associated packages to patched versions that address the authentication bypass vulnerability.
Implement strict authentication mechanisms and role-based permissions to ensure only authorized access to GraphQL operations over websockets.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor for security updates and patches released by Quarkus and Red Hat to address known vulnerabilities promptly.
Conduct thorough security assessments and audits to identify and mitigate potential weaknesses in authentication mechanisms and access controls.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all systems running the Red Hat build of Quarkus and related packages are updated to versions that contain the necessary security patches to prevent unauthorized access through the described vulnerability. Regularly check for updates and apply them promptly to maintain a secure environment.