CVE-2023-23777 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE-2023-23777 article provides insights into a specific vulnerability identified as an improper neutralization of special elements utilized in an OS command ('OS Command Injection') in Fortinet's FortiWeb versions 7.0.1 and below, 6.4 (all versions), and version 6.3.18 and below. The vulnerability could potentially enable a privileged attacker to execute arbitrary bash commands via crafted cli backup parameters.

Understanding CVE-2023-23777

This section delves into the details of CVE-2023-23777 vulnerability, its impact, technical aspects, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-23777?

CVE-2023-23777 is categorized as an improper neutralization of special elements in OS command injection vulnerability (CWE-78) affecting FortiWeb versions 7.0.1 and below, all versions of 6.4, and version 6.3.18 and below. This flaw could allow a malicious actor with elevated privileges to execute unauthorized commands within the target system.

The Impact of CVE-2023-23777

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as high with a CVSS base score of 7.2. The attack complexity is low, with a network-based attack vector. It poses high risks to confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system, requiring high privileges for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-23777

This section elaborates on the technical aspects of CVE-2023-23777, including vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and exploitation mechanisms.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from the improper neutralization of special elements in OS command injection, allowing threat actors to execute arbitrary bash commands through manipulated cli backup parameters.

Affected Systems and Versions

FortiWeb versions 7.0.1 and below, all versions of 6.4, and version 6.3.18 and below are impacted by CVE-2023-23777, exposing them to potential exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

An attacker with elevated privileges can exploit the CVE-2023-23777 vulnerability by crafting specific cli backup parameters to execute unauthorized bash commands on the target system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Here we discuss the necessary measures to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-23777, including immediate steps and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to upgrade to FortiWeb version 7.0.2 or higher to remediate the vulnerability.
Upgrading to FortiWeb version 6.3.19 or above also helps in addressing the security issue.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust access controls, regular security updates, and conducting thorough security assessments can enhance the long-term security posture of the system to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Regularly installing security patches and updates provided by Fortinet for FortiWeb can help in keeping the system resilient against potential cyber threats and vulnerabilities.