CVE-2023-22323 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE, assigned by F5, was published on February 1, 2023. It specifically relates to a vulnerability in BIG-IP versions 13.1.x, 14.1.x, 15.1.x, 16.1.x, and 17.0.x software where undisclosed requests could lead to increased CPU resource utilization when the OCSP authentication profile is configured on a virtual server.

Understanding CVE-2023-22323

This section will provide an overview of the CVE-2023-22323 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2023-22323?

The CVE-2023-22323 vulnerability affects F5's BIG-IP software versions prior to 17.0.0.2, 16.1.3.3, 15.1.8.1, and 14.1.5.3, as well as all versions of 13.1.x. It arises when undisclosed requests trigger an increase in CPU resource utilization due to the configuration of the OCSP authentication profile on a virtual server.

The Impact of CVE-2023-22323

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as high, with a base severity score of 7.5 according to the CVSS v3.1 metrics. The attack vector is via the network, with a low attack complexity and high availability impact. While no privileges are required for exploitation, the scope remains unchanged with no user interaction needed.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-22323

This section will delve into the technical aspects of CVE-2023-22323.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability (CWE-770) involves the allocation of resources without limits or throttling, leading to increased CPU resource utilization in affected BIG-IP software versions when OCSP authentication profiles are configured on virtual servers.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts BIG-IP software versions prior to 17.0.0.2, 16.1.3.3, 15.1.8.1, 14.1.5.3, and all versions of 13.1.x that have the OCSP authentication profile configured on virtual servers.

Exploitation Mechanism

Undisclosed requests can exploit the vulnerability in affected BIG-IP versions, triggering an increase in CPU resource utilization through the configured OCSP authentication profile on virtual servers.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines the steps to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2023-22323 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

To address this vulnerability, it is recommended to update the affected BIG-IP software versions to 17.0.0.2, 16.1.3.3, 15.1.8.1, 14.1.5.3, or implement the necessary security patches provided by F5.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing regular security updates, monitoring network traffic for any suspicious activity, and restricting access to critical systems can help enhance overall security posture and reduce the risk of exploitation.

Patching and Updates

Staying informed about software updates and security advisories from F5, promptly applying patches or fixes, and ensuring proper configuration of authentication profiles can help prevent potential vulnerabilities like the one identified in CVE-2023-22323.