CVE-2022-42475 : What You Need to Know

A heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in FortiOS SSL-VPN and FortiProxy SSL-VPN may allow a remote unauthenticated attacker to execute arbitrary code or commands.

Understanding CVE-2022-42475

This CVE identifies a critical vulnerability in FortiOS SSL-VPN and FortiProxy SSL-VPN products.

What is CVE-2022-42475?

CVE-2022-42475 refers to a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in FortiOS SSL-VPN versions 7.2.0 through 7.2.2, 7.0.0 through 7.0.8, 6.4.0 through 6.4.10, 6.2.0 through 6.2.11, 6.0.15, and earlier versions, as well as FortiProxy SSL-VPN versions 7.2.0 through 7.2.1, 7.0.7, and earlier. This vulnerability could enable an unauthenticated attacker to execute malicious code or commands by sending crafted requests.

The Impact of CVE-2022-42475

The impact of CVE-2022-42475 is rated as critical. If exploited, it could allow a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code or commands without authentication, posing significant risks to affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-42475

This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability involves a heap-based buffer overflow, specifically targeting FortiOS SSL-VPN and FortiProxy SSL-VPN products. Attackers can exploit this flaw to trigger arbitrary code execution through carefully crafted requests.

Affected Systems and Versions

Various versions of FortiOS SSL-VPN and FortiProxy SSL-VPN are impacted, including 7.2.0 to 7.2.2, 7.0.0 to 7.0.8, 6.4.0 to 6.4.10, 6.2.0 to 6.2.11, 6.0.15, and earlier.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited remotely by sending specific requests to the affected SSL-VPN products, enabling attackers to achieve unauthorized code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems against CVE-2022-42475 involves immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to upgrade to the following versions:

FortiOS version 7.2.3 or above
FortiOS version 7.0.9 or above
FortiOS version 6.4.11 or above
FortiOS version 6.2.12 or above
FortiOS version 6.0.16 or above
Upcoming version of FortiOS-6K7K 7.0.8 or above
FortiOS-6K7K version 6.4.10 or above
FortiOS-6K7K version 6.2.12 or above
FortiOS-6K7K version 6.0.15 or above
FortiProxy version 7.2.2 or above
FortiProxy version 7.0.8 or above
Upcoming version of FortiProxy 2.0.12 or above

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly updating software, maintaining strong access controls, and monitoring network traffic can help enhance overall cybersecurity.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and updates released by Fortinet to address vulnerabilities like CVE-2022-42475.