CVE-2023-20274 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE record was published on November 21, 2023, by Cisco, and it pertains to a vulnerability found in the installer script of Cisco AppDynamics PHP Agent. The vulnerability could potentially allow an authenticated, local attacker to elevate their privileges on an affected device.

Understanding CVE-2023-20274

This section will delve into the details of CVE-2023-20274, its impact, technical aspects, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-20274?

CVE-2023-20274 is a security vulnerability identified in the installer script of Cisco AppDynamics PHP Agent. The flaw arises from insufficient permissions set by the PHP Agent Installer on the PHP Agent install directory. As a result, an attacker with local access could exploit this vulnerability by manipulating objects in the PHP Agent install directory, leading to privilege escalation up to root level on the compromised device.

The Impact of CVE-2023-20274

If successfully exploited, this vulnerability could enable a lower-privileged attacker to elevate their permissions to root on the affected device. This could result in unauthorized access, data manipulation, or further compromise of the system's integrity and confidentiality.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-20274

Let's explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-20274, including vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the installer script of Cisco AppDynamics PHP Agent results from inadequate permissions in the PHP Agent install directory. An attacker could abuse this by altering objects in the directory to escalate their privileges on the compromised device.

Affected Systems and Versions

Multiple versions of Cisco AppDynamics are impacted by this vulnerability, ranging from 21.2.7 to 23.4.0. Users utilizing these versions should take immediate action to address this security issue.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-20274 involves an authenticated, local attacker manipulating objects within the PHP Agent install directory to gain elevated privileges on the affected device.

Mitigation and Prevention

Understanding how to mitigate and prevent CVE-2023-20274 is crucial to safeguarding systems and data from potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users of the affected Cisco AppDynamics versions should restrict access to the PHP Agent install directory and apply the necessary patches provided by Cisco to mitigate the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing strong access control measures, regularly updating software, and monitoring system logs for suspicious activities are essential practices to enhance overall security posture and prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

It is recommended that users affected by CVE-2023-20274 promptly apply the patches released by Cisco to address the vulnerability and protect their systems from potential exploitation. Regularly checking for security updates and applying patches promptly is critical to maintaining a secure environment.