CVE-2023-20074 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE record was published by Cisco on November 1, 2023, highlighting multiple vulnerabilities in the web-based management interface of Cisco Firepower Management Center (FMC) Software. These vulnerabilities could potentially lead to a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) attack by an unauthenticated remote attacker.

Understanding CVE-2023-20074

This section delves into the specifics of CVE-2023-20074, shedding light on the nature of the vulnerability and its potential impact on affected systems.

What is CVE-2023-20074?

CVE-2023-20074 encompasses multiple vulnerabilities present in the web-based management interface of Cisco Firepower Management Center (FMC) Software. These vulnerabilities stem from inadequate validation of user-supplied input, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary script code in the context of the interface or access sensitive information.

The Impact of CVE-2023-20074

The impact of CVE-2023-20074 can result in a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) attack, potentially causing a temporary availability impact on portions of the FMC Dashboard. By exploiting these vulnerabilities, attackers can compromise the integrity and confidentiality of the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-20074

In this section, we delve into the technical aspects of CVE-2023-20074, including the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerabilities in CVE-2023-20074 are a result of insufficient validation of user-supplied input within the web-based management interface of Cisco Firepower Management Center (FMC) Software, enabling attackers to perform stored cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

A wide range of versions of Cisco Firepower Management Center (FMC) Software are affected by CVE-2023-20074. Versions ranging from 6.2.3 to 7.3.1.1 have been identified as susceptible to these vulnerabilities.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit CVE-2023-20074 by inserting crafted input into various data fields within the affected interface, enabling the execution of malicious script code and unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section provides insights into mitigating the risks associated with CVE-2023-20074 and implementing preventive measures against similar vulnerabilities.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations are advised to apply security updates and patches released by Cisco to address the vulnerabilities in Cisco Firepower Management Center (FMC) Software. It is crucial to monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity that may indicate an ongoing attack.

Long-Term Security Practices

Establishing robust security protocols, conducting regular security assessments, and educating users about safe browsing habits can help enhance the overall security posture of systems and mitigate the risks posed by stored cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks.

Patching and Updates

Regularly updating software and firmware, implementing security best practices, and staying informed about security advisories from vendors like Cisco are essential steps in safeguarding systems against known vulnerabilities like those disclosed in CVE-2023-20074.