CVE-2023-0567 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE record details a vulnerability in PHP versions 8.0.X before 8.0.28, 8.1.X before 8.1.16, and 8.2.X before 8.2.3 related to the

password_verify()

function.

Understanding CVE-2023-0567

This vulnerability in PHP could allow the

password_verify()

function to accept some invalid Blowfish hashes as valid. If an invalid hash mistakenly enters the password database, it could potentially permit any password for that entry to be accepted as valid.

What is CVE-2023-0567?

The CVE-2023-0567 vulnerability specifically affects PHP versions 8.0.X, 8.1.X, and 8.2.X. It results from the

password_verify()

function accepting invalid Blowfish hashes as legitimate, potentially compromising the security of password validation mechanisms in applications.

The Impact of CVE-2023-0567

This vulnerability could have significant implications for application security, allowing unauthorized users to potentially gain access by using any password for affected entries that contain the incorrectly validated hashes.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-0567

The following aspects provide further insight into this CVE:

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises in PHP versions 8.0.X, 8.1.X, and 8.2.X, where the

password_verify()

function may validate certain invalid Blowfish hashes as genuine, enabling the acceptance of unauthorized passwords.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts PHP versions 8.0.X, 8.1.X, and 8.2.X. Specifically, versions less than 8.0.28, 8.1.16, and 8.2.3 are affected, respectively.

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting this vulnerability, attackers could potentially bypass password authentication mechanisms by using invalid Blowfish hashes that are incorrectly accepted as valid by the

password_verify()

function.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-0567 and enhance system security, the following steps are recommended:

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade PHP to versions 8.0.28, 8.1.16, or 8.2.3, where the vulnerability has been addressed.
Review and update password storage mechanisms to ensure the integrity of stored hashes and prevent the acceptance of invalid ones.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor for security updates and patches released by PHP to mitigate potential vulnerabilities promptly.
Implement secure password storage practices and regularly review authentication mechanisms to enhance overall system security.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely application of patches and updates from PHP to address known vulnerabilities and improve the security posture of systems running affected versions.