CVE-2022-35243 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2022-35243, an iControl REST vulnerability in F5 BIG-IP products, impacting versions 13.1.x to 16.1.x in Appliance mode. Find mitigation steps and prevention strategies.
This article provides detailed information about CVE-2022-35243, a vulnerability in F5 BIG-IP products affecting certain versions running in Appliance mode.
Understanding CVE-2022-35243
CVE-2022-35243 is an authenticated iControl REST in Appliance mode vulnerability that impacts F5's BIG-IP products. It allows authenticated users with the Administrator role to bypass Appliance mode restrictions, potentially leading to a breach.
What is CVE-2022-35243?
In BIG-IP Versions 16.1.x before 16.1.3, 15.1.x before 15.1.5.1, 14.1.x before 14.1.5, and all versions of 13.1.x, authenticated users can exploit an undisclosed iControl REST endpoint to cross security boundaries when in Appliance mode.
The Impact of CVE-2022-35243
The vulnerability poses a high severity risk with a CVSS base score of 8.7, compromising confidentiality, integrity, and requiring high privileges for exploitation. Although the availability impact is rated as none, immediate action is crucial to prevent potential breaches.
Technical Details of CVE-2022-35243
CVE-2022-35243 falls under CWE-269 - Improper Privilege Management.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw allows authenticated users assigned the Administrator role to bypass Appliance mode restrictions using an undisclosed iControl REST endpoint, potentially leading to unauthorized access and breaches.
Affected Systems and Versions
BIG-IP Versions 16.1.x (before 16.1.3), 15.1.x (before 15.1.5.1), 14.1.x (before 14.1.5), and all versions of 13.1.x are affected by this vulnerability when in Appliance mode.
Exploitation Mechanism
An attacker with high privileges exploiting the undisclosed iControl REST endpoint can cross security boundaries in Appliance mode, compromising system integrity and confidentiality.
Mitigation and Prevention
Understanding the severity and potential risk, immediate steps and long-term security practices are essential to safeguard systems.
Immediate Steps to Take
Organizations using affected versions should review and apply security patches provided by F5 promptly. Implement strict access controls and monitoring to detect any unauthorized activities.
Long-Term Security Practices
Regularly update hardware and software, conduct security audits, and educate users on best security practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.
Patching and Updates
Refer to F5's security advisory and apply the necessary patches to mitigate the vulnerability and enhance overall system security.