CVE-2017-7738 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2017-7738 affecting Fortinet FortiOS versions 5.6.0 to 5.6.2, 5.4.0 to 5.4.5, and 5.2 and below. Discover the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps for this Information Disclosure vulnerability.
CVE-2017-7738 was published on December 8, 2017, and affects Fortinet FortiOS versions 5.6.0 to 5.6.2, 5.4.0 to 5.4.5, and 5.2 and below. The vulnerability allows an admin user with super_admin privileges to access and view SSL VPN web portal session information, potentially exposing user credentials.
Understanding CVE-2017-7738
This CVE identifies an Information Disclosure vulnerability in Fortinet FortiOS.
What is CVE-2017-7738?
The fnsysctl CLI command in affected versions of Fortinet FortiOS allows unauthorized access to sensitive session data within the SSL VPN web portal.
The Impact of CVE-2017-7738
The vulnerability enables a user with elevated privileges to view session information, including potentially sensitive user credentials.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-7738
Fortinet FortiOS versions 5.6.0 to 5.6.2, 5.4.0 to 5.4.5, and 5.2 and below are susceptible to this Information Disclosure vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The fnsysctl CLI command in the affected versions permits unauthorized access to SSL VPN web portal session details.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Fortinet FortiOS 5.6.0 to 5.6.2
- Fortinet FortiOS 5.4.0 to 5.4.5
- Fortinet FortiOS 5.2 and below
Exploitation Mechanism
An admin user with super_admin privileges can exploit this vulnerability to access and view SSL VPN web portal session information.
Mitigation and Prevention
It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent exploitation of CVE-2017-7738.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade Fortinet FortiOS to a non-vulnerable version.
- Restrict access to the fnsysctl CLI command.
- Monitor SSL VPN web portal activity for unauthorized access.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch Fortinet FortiOS to the latest secure version.
- Implement least privilege access controls to limit user capabilities.
- Conduct security audits to identify and address vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Fortinet provides patches and updates to address CVE-2017-7738 and other security vulnerabilities.