CVE-2023-23852 in Solution Manager
Summary
by MITRE • 02/14/2023
SAP Solution Manager (System Monitoring) - version 720, does not sufficiently encode user-controlled inputs, resulting in Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/14/2023
SAP Solution Manager version 720 contains a critical cross-site scripting vulnerability that stems from inadequate input validation and encoding mechanisms within its System Monitoring component. This vulnerability allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into user-controlled input fields that are subsequently rendered in web interfaces without proper sanitization. The flaw exists in the way the application processes and displays user-supplied data, creating an avenue for attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code within the context of authenticated users' browsers. The vulnerability specifically affects the monitoring functionality where users can input data that gets directly embedded into web pages without appropriate HTML encoding or sanitization measures.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic XSS flaw categorized under CWE-79 which represents Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious payloads that contain script tags or other executable code within input fields that are processed by the monitoring interface. When legitimate users view pages containing the malicious input, the embedded scripts execute in their browser context, potentially leading to session hijacking, data theft, or redirection to malicious sites. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects the monitoring component which is typically accessed by administrators and authorized personnel with elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can be leveraged for more sophisticated attacks within the SAP ecosystem. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can potentially access sensitive monitoring data, manipulate system views, or use the compromised session to escalate privileges within the Solution Manager environment. The attack surface is broadened by the fact that the monitoring component is frequently used by system administrators who have elevated access rights, making successful exploitation potentially devastating. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables execution of malicious scripts through web-based interfaces.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate implementation of input validation and output encoding mechanisms throughout the affected components. Organizations should apply the latest SAP security patches and hotfixes released specifically for this vulnerability, while also implementing proper HTML encoding for all user-supplied inputs. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth measures, though these should not be considered a complete solution. Regular security assessments of SAP Solution Manager installations should include thorough testing of input validation mechanisms and monitoring for potential XSS vectors. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and implementing comprehensive input sanitization across all web interfaces within SAP environments.