CVE-2023-28002 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE-2023-28002 vulnerability affects FortiOS and FortiProxy products by Fortinet. The vulnerability allows a local attacker with admin privileges to boot a malicious image on the device and bypass the filesystem integrity check.

Understanding CVE-2023-28002

This vulnerability arises from an improper validation of integrity check value within specific versions of FortiOS and FortiProxy products, potentially enabling an attacker to execute unauthorized code or commands.

What is CVE-2023-28002?

CVE-2023-28002 is an improper validation of integrity check value vulnerability identified in FortiOS version 7.2.0 through 7.2.3, 7.0.0 through 7.0.12, 6.4 all versions, 6.2 all versions, 6.0 all versions, and FortiProxy version 7.2 all versions, 7.0 all versions, 2.0 all versions.

The Impact of CVE-2023-28002

This vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 5.8, categorizing it as a medium-severity issue. It poses a high risk to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems. The attack complexity is high, and the attack vector is local, requiring high privileges.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-28002

The following technical aspects are relevant to CVE-2023-28002:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows a local attacker with admin privileges to boot a malicious image on the device and bypass the filesystem integrity check in place, potentially leading to the execution of unauthorized code or commands.

Affected Systems and Versions

FortiOS versions 7.2.0 to 7.2.3
FortiOS versions 7.0.0 to 7.0.12
FortiOS versions 6.4 (all versions)
FortiOS versions 6.2 (all versions)
FortiOS versions 6.0 (all versions)
FortiProxy versions 7.2 (all versions)
FortiProxy versions 7.0 (all versions)
FortiProxy versions 2.0 (all versions)

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability could be exploited by a local attacker who has admin privileges to manipulate the booting process and evade file integrity checks to execute malicious code on the target device.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-28002, immediate actions and long-term security practices are essential:

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to FortiOS version 7.4.0 or above
Upgrade to FortiOS version 7.2.4 or above
Upgrade to FortiOS version 7.0.13 or above
Upgrade to FortiProxy version 7.4.0 or above

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch vulnerable software, maintain access controls to limit privileges, monitor system logs for suspicious activities, conduct security assessments and audits, and educate users on cybersecurity best practices.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely deployment of security patches provided by Fortinet to address CVE-2023-28002 and other potential vulnerabilities in the FortiOS and FortiProxy products. Regularly check for updates and apply them promptly to enhance the security posture of your systems.