CVE-2023-23299 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE record was published on May 23, 2023, by MITRE. It involves the bypassing of the permission system in the GarminOS TVM component, affecting CIQ API versions 1.0.0 through 4.1.7. This vulnerability allows a malicious application to access restricted CIQ modules, call their functions, and disclose sensitive data like user profile information and GPS coordinates.

Understanding CVE-2023-23299

This section will delve into the details of CVE-2023-23299, explaining the vulnerability, its impact, technical aspects, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-23299?

CVE-2023-23299 points to a flaw in the permission system of the GarminOS TVM component within CIQ API versions 1.0.0 through 4.1.7. It enables a malicious application to bypass the permission restrictions, leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data.

The Impact of CVE-2023-23299

The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows unauthorized access to restricted CIQ modules, enabling the disclosure of user profile information and GPS coordinates. This can lead to privacy breaches and potential misuse of sensitive data.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-23299

In this section, we will explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-23299, including the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the GarminOS TVM component allows a malicious application to craft code and data sections that can bypass the permission system entirely. This enables the exploitation of restricted CIQ modules and the disclosure of sensitive data.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected systems include CIQ API versions 1.0.0 through 4.1.7. Users utilizing these versions are at risk of unauthorized access and data disclosure due to this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

A malicious application with specially crafted code and data sections can exploit this vulnerability to gain access to restricted CIQ modules, execute their functions, and extract sensitive data such as user profiles and GPS coordinates.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-23299, certain mitigation steps and prevention measures can be taken to secure systems and protect sensitive data.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users and organizations should ensure that all Garmin devices running affected CIQ API versions are updated to patched versions promptly. Additionally, monitoring for suspicious activities and unauthorized data access is crucial.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing strong user permission controls, conducting regular security audits, and promoting security awareness among developers can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Garmin should release patches and updates promptly to address the flaw in the permission system of the GarminOS TVM component. Users are advised to install these updates as soon as they are available to mitigate the risk of exploitation.