CVE-2023-22635 : What You Need to Know

This CVE record was published by Fortinet on April 11, 2023, and it pertains to a vulnerability found in FortiClientMac software versions that allows a local attacker to escalate privileges by modifying the installer during an upgrade process.

Understanding CVE-2023-22635

This section delves into the details of CVE-2023-22635, shedding light on the nature and implications of this vulnerability.

What is CVE-2023-22635?

CVE-2023-22635 relates to a vulnerability in FortiClientMac where the absence of an integrity check during code downloads could permit a local attacker to elevate their privileges through installer modification upon upgrade.

The Impact of CVE-2023-22635

The impact of this vulnerability could result in a local attacker gaining escalated privileges, leading to potential security breaches and unauthorized access within the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-22635

This section dives deeper into the technical aspects of CVE-2023-22635, outlining the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in FortiClientMac versions 7.0.0 through 7.0.7, as well as versions 6.4, 6.2, 6.0, 5.6, 5.4, 5.2, 5.0, and 4.0, allows a local attacker to escalate privileges by tampering with the installer during an upgrade process.

Affected Systems and Versions

FortiClientMac versions 7.0.0 through 7.0.7, 6.4, 6.2, 6.0, 5.6, 5.4, 5.2, 5.0, and 4.0 are impacted by this vulnerability, posing a security risk to users of these versions.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-22635 occurs when a local attacker manipulates the FortiClientMac installer during the upgrade process, leveraging the lack of integrity checks in the code download.

Mitigation and Prevention

In order to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-22635, it is crucial to take immediate remedial actions and implement long-term security measures to enhance system resilience.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to upgrade to FortiClientMac version 7.0.8 or above as an immediate remediation step to safeguard against the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing strict security protocols, ensuring regular software updates, and maintaining robust access control mechanisms can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Regularly updating FortiClientMac to versions 7.0.8 or 7.2.0 and staying informed about security advisories from Fortinet can aid in staying protected against potential threats.