CVE-2023-20197 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE-2023-20197 involves a vulnerability in the filesystem image parser for Hierarchical File System Plus (HFS+) of ClamAV, which could potentially lead to a denial of service (DoS) condition on affected devices.

Understanding CVE-2023-20197

This vulnerability in ClamAV's filesystem image parser could be exploited by an unauthenticated, remote attacker to disrupt the scanning process and cause the affected software to stop responding, resulting in a DoS condition.

What is CVE-2023-20197?

The vulnerability in CVE-2023-20197 is caused by an incorrect check for completion during file decompression, leading to a loop condition that may halt the affected software from responding. Attackers can craft HFS+ filesystem images to trigger this vulnerability in ClamAV.

The Impact of CVE-2023-20197

If successfully exploited, CVE-2023-20197 could result in a DoS condition on the ClamAV scanning process, potentially consuming system resources and causing disruptions in the affected software's operations.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-20197

This vulnerability in ClamAV has been assigned a CVSSv3 base score of 7.5, indicating a high severity level. The attack vector is through the network, with low complexity and no privileges required. The impact is particularly on the availability of the affected system.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from an incorrect completion check during file decompression in ClamAV's HFS+ filesystem image parser, leading to a potential loop condition that can cause software unresponsiveness.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects the Cisco Secure Endpoint Private Cloud Console, with the specific version being marked as "N/A" and confirmed as affected.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by submitting a crafted HFS+ filesystem image to be scanned by ClamAV on the affected device, triggering the incorrect check for completion during file decompression.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-20197, immediate steps should be taken to mitigate the risk of exploitation and ensure the security of the affected systems.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations should apply patches or updates provided by Cisco to address the vulnerability in ClamAV.
Implement network security measures to prevent unauthorized access to the affected devices.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities that may indicate exploitation attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities promptly.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and mitigate potential security risks.
Educate users and IT personnel on best practices for system security and response to security incidents.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Cisco and other relevant sources for updates on patches and fixes related to CVE-2023-20197.
Ensure timely deployment of security patches to all affected devices to prevent exploitation of the vulnerability.