CVE-2023-0568 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE record highlights 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, involving a core path resolution function that allocates a buffer one byte too small. This issue may lead to unauthorized data access or modification when resolving paths close to the system MAXPATHLEN setting.

Understanding CVE-2023-0568

This section delves into what CVE-2023-0568 entails, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-0568?

CVE-2023-0568 refers to an array overrun vulnerability in the common path resolution code of PHP versions 8.0.X, 8.1.X, and 8.2.X. This vulnerability arises from insufficient buffer allocation in the core path resolution function.

The Impact of CVE-2023-0568

The impact of CVE-2023-0568, with a CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.5, is categorized as high severity. The vulnerability can lead to unauthorized data access or modification due to buffer overrun issues in the path resolution process.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-0568

This section outlines the vulnerability description, affected systems, versions, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

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, the core path resolution function allocates a buffer one byte too small. This can result in the overwriting of the byte after the allocated buffer with a NULL value, potentially enabling unauthorized data access or modification.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts PHP versions 8.0.X, 8.1.X, and 8.2.X. Specifically, versions 8.0.28, 8.1.16, and 8.2.3 and earlier are affected by this array overrun issue.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2023-0568 involves manipulating path resolution processes in PHP to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially leading to unauthorized data access or modification.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines immediate steps to take, long-term security practices, and the importance of patching and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

PHP users are advised to update to the latest patched versions (8.0.28, 8.1.16, or 8.2.3) to mitigate the vulnerability. Additionally, implementing secure coding practices and input validation can help prevent exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Maintaining up-to-date PHP installations, monitoring security advisories, and conducting regular security assessments can enhance overall system security and resilience against potential vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Regularly applying security patches released by PHP, such as versions 8.0.28, 8.1.16, and 8.2.3, is crucial to addressing known vulnerabilities and safeguarding systems against potential exploits.