External risk intelligence

TeoBASE allows attackers to steal customer data or disrupt services.

CVE advisorySeverity: CRITICAL (CVSS 9.8)

CVE-2023-6173

An external attacker can exploit a flaw in TeoSOFT TeoBASE to bypass login security and gain administrative access. Once inside, they can steal credentials and alter sensitive database records, leading to data theft and unauthorized system changes.

2Halo Surface Signal

SQL Injection

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2023-6173

TeoBASE is a software library and database integration framework for Geographical Information Systems (GIS). While applications utilizing this library may be network-reachable in some environments, the underlying library is typically deployed within internal municipal or corporate networks behind access controls, making direct public internet exposure uncommon.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

This vulnerability in TeoSOFT Software's TeoBASE allows unauthorized users to inject malicious SQL commands, potentially leading to data theft or system compromise. Because this issue is in a widely used component, it warrants attention across the organization.

  • Sensitive data could be exposed.
  • Malicious commands can be run.
  • The vendor has not responded.

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

An attacker can exploit this SQL injection vulnerability to manipulate database queries. This could allow them to steal sensitive data, modify records, or even take control of the underlying database system.

  • Network access is sufficient.
  • Target the TeoBASE API.
  • No user interaction required.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

The vendor's lack of response to this SQL injection vulnerability is concerning, suggesting potential neglect of security. However, the specific product, TeoBASE, is often used in internal or controlled environments, which may limit direct public exploitability.

  • Vendor unresponsive to disclosure.
  • Product typically used internally.
  • No public exploit code observed.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

Prioritize blocking network traffic targeting TeoBASE services due to the critical SQL injection vulnerability and the vendor's lack of response. Focus on identifying and isolating any TeoBASE instances, especially if they are exposed externally or used for sensitive data, until a patch is available or effective mitigations are deployed.

  • Block network access to TeoBASE.
  • Monitor logs for SQL injection attempts.
  • Inventory all TeoBASE installations.

Frequently asked questions

What is TeoSOFT Software TeoBASE and its function?

TeoBASE is a software library and database integration framework, often utilized in Geographical Information Systems (GIS). It facilitates the management and connection of data essential for mapping and location-based applications.

What type of vulnerability does CVE-2023-6173 represent in TeoBASE?

CVE-2023-6173 is an SQL Injection vulnerability (CWE-89), meaning attackers can insert malicious SQL commands into TeoBASE inputs. This can lead to unauthorized access, modification, or deletion of database information.

How can an attacker exploit the SQL injection flaw in TeoBASE?

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending specially crafted data over a network to the TeoBASE API without requiring any user interaction. This allows them to manipulate database queries and potentially compromise the system.

What is the relevance of CVE-2023-6173, considering Halo Surface Signal's assessment?

Halo Surface Signal assesses the relevance of this CVE as 'Unlikely' due to TeoBASE typically being deployed in internal, controlled network environments, limiting direct public internet exposure, despite the vulnerability's critical severity.

What practical steps should be taken in response to the TeoBASE vulnerability?

It is recommended to block network traffic targeting TeoBASE services, monitor logs for SQL injection attempts, and inventory all TeoBASE installations. Prioritize identifying and isolating instances, especially those exposed externally or handling sensitive data, until a patch or effective mitigations are available.

References