CVE-2023-1728 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE record was published by TR-CERT on April 4, 2023, highlighting a significant security vulnerability in the Fernus Informatics LMS software.

Understanding CVE-2023-1728

This vulnerability, identified as "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type," allows for OS Command Injection and Server Side Include (SSI) Injection in Fernus Informatics LMS versions prior to 23.04.03.

What is CVE-2023-1728?

The CVE-2023-1728 vulnerability in Fernus Informatics LMS enables malicious actors to execute OS commands and inject server-side scripts due to improper handling of file uploads with dangerous types.

The Impact of CVE-2023-1728

This vulnerability poses a critical threat with a CVSS base severity score of 9.8 out of 10, indicating high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts. It falls under CAPEC-88 (OS Command Injection) and CAPEC-101 (Server Side Include Injection) attack scenarios.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-1728

The vulnerability arises from the unrestricted upload of files with dangerous types in Fernus Informatics LMS. Below are further technical details about the affected systems and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The issue allows threat actors to upload files with dangerous types, leading to OS Command Injection and Server Side Include (SSI) Injection, compromising the security integrity of the system.

Affected Systems and Versions

Fernus Informatics LMS versions before 23.04.03 are susceptible to this vulnerability, potentially impacting systems that have not been updated to the latest version.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by uploading malicious files with dangerous types, triggering OS Command Injection and Server Side Include Injection to execute unauthorized commands and scripts on the server.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-1728 and enhance system security, follow these mitigation strategies and best practices:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Fernus Informatics LMS to version 23.04.03 or later to patch the vulnerability.
Implement input validation mechanisms to restrict file uploads and prevent dangerous file types.
Monitor file upload activities and system logs for any suspicious behavior.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and fix potential vulnerabilities.
Train employees on secure coding practices and the importance of secure file handling.
Stay informed about security advisories and updates from software vendors to proactively address emerging threats.

Patching and Updates

Regularly apply security patches and updates provided by Fernus Informatics to mitigate known vulnerabilities and strengthen the overall security posture of the system.