CVE-2019-6693 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability in Fortinet's FortiGate devices could allow an attacker to decrypt sensitive data by exploiting a hard-coded cryptographic key used for ciphering.

Understanding CVE-2019-6693

This CVE involves an information disclosure vulnerability in FortiGate devices that could lead to the decryption of sensitive data.

What is CVE-2019-6693?

The vulnerability allows an attacker with access to the FortiOS configuration backup file to decrypt sensitive data using a hard-coded cryptographic key.

The Impact of CVE-2019-6693

Exploiting this vulnerability could result in the decryption of passwords of users (excluding the administrator's password), passphrases of private keys, and the High Availability password if set.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-6693

This section provides technical details of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

An attacker with access to the FortiOS configuration backup file can decrypt sensitive data by leveraging a hard-coded cryptographic key.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: FortiGate
Vendor: Fortinet
Affected Versions:
5.6.9 and below
6.0.5 and below
6.2.0

Exploitation Mechanism

The attacker exploits the hard-coded cryptographic key in the FortiOS configuration backup file to decipher sensitive data.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from this vulnerability is crucial.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches provided by Fortinet promptly.
Restrict access to the FortiOS configuration backup file.
Monitor for any unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong encryption practices for sensitive data.
Regularly update and review security configurations.

Patching and Updates

Fortinet has released patches to address this vulnerability.
Regularly check for updates and apply them to ensure system security.