CVE-2023-3247 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE record for CVE-2023-3247 was assigned by PHP and was published on July 22, 2023. The vulnerability affects PHP versions 8.0.* before 8.0.29, 8.1.* before 8.1.20, and 8.2.* before 8.2.7 when using SOAP HTTP Digest Authentication.

Understanding CVE-2023-3247

This section delves into an in-depth understanding of the CVE-2023-3247 vulnerability, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-3247?

CVE-2023-3247 in PHP versions arises from a random value generator not being checked for failure and using a narrower range of values than required. In the event of a random generator failure, it could lead to the disclosure of 31 bits of uninitialized memory from the client to the server. This issue also makes it easier for a malicious server to guess the client's nonce.

The Impact of CVE-2023-3247

The impact of this vulnerability in PHP versions 8.0.* before 8.0.29, 8.1.* before 8.1.20, and 8.2.* before 8.2.7 potentially allows for the disclosure of sensitive information and facilitates unauthorized access by malicious entities.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-3247

This section provides technical details regarding the vulnerability, including the description, affected systems and versions, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in PHP versions 8.0., 8.1., and 8.2.* when using SOAP HTTP Digest Authentication exposes a flaw in the random value generation process, leading to memory disclosure and potential security risks.

Affected Systems and Versions

PHP versions 8.0.* before 8.0.29, 8.1.* before 8.1.20, and 8.2.* before 8.2.7 are affected by CVE-2023-3247 when utilizing SOAP HTTP Digest Authentication.

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting the insufficient random bytes in SOAP HTTP Digest Authentication in the specified PHP versions, malicious actors can potentially access uninitialized memory and guess client nonces, paving the way for unauthorized access.

Mitigation and Prevention

In response to CVE-2023-3247, it is crucial to implement immediate steps to mitigate the risk and establish long-term security practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations utilizing affected PHP versions should update to the patched versions immediately.
Implement additional security measures to mitigate the risk of unauthorized access and data disclosure.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor security advisories and update systems promptly.
Conduct security assessments and audits to identify and address potential vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

PHP Group has released patches for PHP versions 8.0.29, 8.1.20, and 8.2.7 to address the vulnerability. It is recommended to apply these updates as soon as possible to enhance the security of the affected systems.