CVE-2023-20116 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE record pertains to a vulnerability identified in the Administrative XML Web Service (AXL) API of Cisco Unified Communications Manager (Unified CM) and Cisco Unified Communications Manager Session Management Edition (Unified CM SME). The vulnerability could be exploited by an authenticated, remote attacker to trigger a denial of service (DoS) condition on the affected device.

Understanding CVE-2023-20116

This section delves into the specifics of CVE-2023-20116, shedding light on its nature, impact, and implications.

What is CVE-2023-20116?

The vulnerability arises from inadequate validation of user-supplied input to the web UI of the Self Care Portal. By sending specially crafted HTTP input to the targeted device, an attacker could leverage this vulnerability to induce a DoS state on the affected system.

The Impact of CVE-2023-20116

Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to a denial of service scenario on the affected device. This could disrupt normal operations and potentially result in downtime, affecting communication and collaboration capabilities reliant on Cisco Unified Communications Manager.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-20116

This section provides a deeper insight into the technical aspects of CVE-2023-20116, including the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the AXL API of Cisco Unified Communications Manager and Unified CM SME stems from insufficient validation of user inputs within the Self Care Portal's web UI, paving the way for a DoS attack.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts various versions of the Cisco Unified Communications Manager and Cisco Unity Connection, including specific iterations such as 10.5, 11.0, 11.5, 12.0, 12.5, and 14. Organizations utilizing these versions are potentially susceptible to exploitation of CVE-2023-20116.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit this vulnerability, an authenticated remote attacker would send manipulated HTTP input to the targeted device through the Self Care Portal's web UI. Successful exploitation could disrupt service availability on the affected device.

Mitigation and Prevention

In response to CVE-2023-20116, it is crucial for organizations to implement proactive measures to mitigate the risk posed by this vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations should apply relevant security patches and updates provided by Cisco to address the vulnerability promptly.
Implement network security controls to minimize potential attack vectors and monitor for any suspicious activity.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update security protocols and configurations to enhance overall network resilience.
Conduct periodic security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

Cisco has released security advisories and patches to remediate the vulnerability. Organizations utilizing the affected versions of Cisco Unified Communications Manager and Unity Connection should prioritize the installation of these updates to safeguard their systems against potential exploitation.