CVE-2023-22404 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

An Out-of-bounds Write vulnerability in the Internet Key Exchange Protocol daemon (iked) of Juniper Networks Junos OS on SRX series and MX with SPC3 allows an authenticated, network-based attacker to cause a Denial of Service (DoS). The vulnerability may lead to iked crashing and restarting when a specifically formatted payload is received during the negotiation, impacting other IKE negotiations happening concurrently. This issue affects Juniper Networks Junos OS on SRX Series and MX Series with SPC3, impacting various versions prior to specific releases.

Understanding CVE-2023-22404

This section provides insights into what CVE-2023-22404 is, its impact, technical details, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-22404?

CVE-2023-22404 is an Out-of-bounds Write vulnerability in Juniper Networks Junos OS that allows a network-based attacker to cause a Denial of Service (DoS) by sending a specifically formatted payload to the Internet Key Exchange Protocol daemon (iked).

The Impact of CVE-2023-22404

The vulnerability can result in iked crashing and restarting, rendering the affected tunnel inoperable. Continuous receipt of the payload can lead to repeated crashes, disrupting IKE negotiations on the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-22404

This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in iked allows an authenticated attacker to trigger a Denial of Service (DoS) by sending a specially crafted payload during IKE negotiations, causing the daemon to crash and restart.

Affected Systems and Versions

Juniper Networks Junos OS on SRX Series and MX Series with SPC3 are impacted by CVE-2023-22404. Versions prior to 19.3R3-S7, 19.4R3-S9, 20.2R3-S5, 20.3R3-S5, 20.4R3-S4, 21.1R3-S3, 21.2R3-S2, 21.3R3-S1, 21.4R2-S1, 21.4R3, and 22.1R1-S2, 22.1R2 are vulnerable to exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an authenticated attacker who successfully completes the authentication process. By sending a specifically crafted payload, the attacker can trigger iked crashes during negotiation, disrupting IKE operations.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines the steps to mitigate the CVE-2023-22404 vulnerability, including immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Juniper Networks Junos OS to the following patched versions: 19.3R3-S7, 19.4R3-S9, 20.2R3-S5, 20.3R3-S5, 20.4R3-S4, 21.1R3-S3, 21.2R3-S2, 21.3R3-S1, 21.4R2-S1, 21.4R3, 22.1R1-S2, or 22.1R2 to mitigate the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch Juniper Networks Junos OS to address security vulnerabilities promptly. Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the impact of potential exploits.

Patching and Updates

Juniper Networks has released software updates to address CVE-2023-22404. Ensure your systems are running the patched versions to prevent exploitation of the vulnerability.