CVE-2023-28053 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE, assigned by Dell, was published on December 18, 2023. It pertains to Dell NetWorker Virtual Edition versions 19.8 and below containing deprecated cryptographic algorithms in the SSH component, which could allow a remote unauthenticated attacker to exploit the vulnerability, leading to potential information disclosure.

Understanding CVE-2023-28053

This section will provide an overview of the vulnerability and its impact, as well as technical details regarding affected systems and versions.

What is CVE-2023-28053?

CVE-2023-28053 involves the use of deprecated cryptographic algorithms in the SSH component of Dell NetWorker Virtual Edition versions 19.8 and below. This vulnerability exposes the system to potential exploitation by remote unauthenticated attackers, resulting in information disclosure.

The Impact of CVE-2023-28053

The impact of this CVE is rated as medium with a CVSS v3.1 base score of 5.3. The attack complexity is low, and the confidentiality impact is rated as low as well. Despite no availability impact, the vulnerability poses a risk of information leakage to unauthorized parties.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-28053

In this section, we delve into the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Dell NetWorker Virtual Edition versions 19.8 and below stems from the use of deprecated cryptographic algorithms in the SSH component. This flaw enables remote unauthenticated attackers to potentially access sensitive information.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following versions of Dell NetWorker Virtual Edition are affected:

Versions 19.9 through 19.9.0.2
Versions 19.8 through 19.8.0.3
Versions 19.7 through 19.7.0.5
Version 19.7.1
Versions Prior to 19.7

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-28053 involves leveraging the deprecated cryptographic algorithms present in the SSH component of affected Dell NetWorker Virtual Edition versions. This can be achieved remotely by unauthenticated attackers.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-28053, immediate steps should be taken, followed by the adoption of long-term security practices and timely patching and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to apply the security update provided by Dell to address the SSH cryptographic vulnerabilities in NetWorker Virtual Edition versions 19.8 and below.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust security measures, such as regular security assessments, network segmentation, and access control policies, can enhance the overall security posture and prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitoring security advisories from vendors like Dell and promptly applying patches and updates is essential to safeguard systems from known vulnerabilities and maintain a secure IT environment.