CVE-2023-24485 : What You Need to Know

This CVE, assigned by Citrix, involves a privilege escalation vulnerability in the system on which a vulnerable version of Citrix Workspace app for Windows is running.

Understanding CVE-2023-24485

The vulnerability identified in CVE-2023-24485 allows a standard Windows user to execute operations as SYSTEM on a computer running Citrix Workspace app, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control.

What is CVE-2023-24485?

CVE-2023-24485 is a privilege escalation vulnerability that enables a regular Windows user to carry out actions with elevated privileges on a device hosting the vulnerable Citrix Workspace app for Windows. This flaw poses a significant security risk by granting unauthorized access to critical system resources.

The Impact of CVE-2023-24485

The impact of this vulnerability includes the potential for malicious actors to exploit the system, execute arbitrary commands with elevated permissions, and compromise sensitive data. It can lead to complete system takeover and unauthorized manipulation of software and settings.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-24485

The technical details of CVE-2023-24485 shed light on the vulnerability description, the affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper access control (CWE-284), which allows a standard Windows user to elevate their privileges to that of the SYSTEM account, circumventing the intended security restrictions and gaining unauthorized control over the system.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected product is the Citrix Workspace App for Windows. Specifically, versions of the Citrix Workspace App up to version 2212 are susceptible to this privilege escalation vulnerability. Versions such as 2203 LTSR before CU2 and 1912 LTSR before CU7 Hotfix 2 remain unaffected.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-24485 requires the presence of a vulnerable version of the Citrix Workspace App for Windows on the system. By leveraging this vulnerability, a standard Windows user can manipulate operations as if they were the SYSTEM account, circumventing the established access controls.

Mitigation and Prevention

As a mitigation strategy against CVE-2023-24485, it is crucial to take immediate steps, adopt long-term security practices, and ensure timely patching and updates to safeguard the system from potential exploits.

Immediate Steps to Take

To mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2023-24485, users should refrain from performing installations or uninstallations of the Citrix Workspace App using accounts with elevated privileges. Additionally, restricting access to vulnerable versions of the app can help prevent unauthorized escalation of privileges.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing the principle of least privilege, regularly updating software, conducting security audits, and enhancing user awareness about privilege escalation risks can bolster long-term security measures and mitigate the impact of similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Citrix users are advised to promptly apply patches and updates provided by the vendor to address the privilege escalation vulnerability in the Citrix Workspace App for Windows. Regularly monitoring security advisories and maintaining up-to-date software is imperative to prevent exploitation and maintain a secure computing environment.