CVE-2023-21416 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE details a vulnerability found in the VAPIX API dynamicoverlay.cgi in AXIS OS versions 10.7 through 11.6, discovered by Sandro Poppi, a member of the AXIS OS Bug Bounty Program. The vulnerability could be exploited to carry out a Denial-of-Service attack, potentially blocking access to the overlay configuration page on the Axis device's web interface.

Understanding CVE-2023-21416

This section delves into the specifics of CVE-2023-21416, outlining its impact, technical details, affected systems, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-21416?

The vulnerability in the VAPIX API dynamicoverlay.cgi in AXIS OS versions 10.7 through 11.6 could allow an attacker to launch a Denial-of-Service attack, thereby disrupting access to the overlay configuration page on the Axis device's web interface. The flaw requires authentication with an operator- or administrator-privileged service account for exploitation, but the impact remains significant.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21416

The impact of CVE-2023-21416 is rated as HIGH with a base severity score of 7.1. The vulnerability could lead to a denial of service, affecting the availability of the system. However, it does not have any impact on confidentiality, with low integrity impact and low privileges required for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21416

This section provides detailed technical insights into the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability lies in the VAPIX API dynamicoverlay.cgi in AXIS OS versions 10.7 through 11.6, facilitating a Denial-of-Service attack on the Axis device's web interface. Unauthorized access to this API endpoint could disrupt the overlay configuration page, impacting system availability.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected systems include AXIS OS versions 10.7 through 11.6. Users of these versions are at risk of being targeted through the VAPIX API dynamicoverlay.cgi vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting this vulnerability requires authentication with an operator- or administrator-privileged service account. Once authenticated, an attacker could leverage the flaw to launch a Denial-of-Service attack, blocking access to the overlay configuration page.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-21416, users are advised to take immediate steps, adopt long-term security practices, and apply necessary patches and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should ensure that they have installed the patched versions released by Axis Communications AB for AXIS OS. It is also crucial to monitor any suspicious activities on the system that could indicate an attempted exploit.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust access control measures, conducting regular security audits, and staying informed about security best practices can help enhance the overall security posture and prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Axis Communications AB has released patched versions for the affected AXIS OS installations. Users are urged to apply these updates promptly to eliminate the vulnerability and safeguard their systems from potential attacks.