CVE-2023-3252 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE-2023-3252 was assigned by Tenable and published on August 29, 2023. It pertains to an arbitrary file write vulnerability that affects the Nessus product by Tenable, specifically versions lower than 10.6.0.

Understanding CVE-2023-3252

This vulnerability allows an authenticated, remote attacker with administrator privileges to manipulate logging variables, resulting in the overwriting of arbitrary files on the targeted host with log data. This unauthorized action could lead to a denial of service scenario.

What is CVE-2023-3252?

CVE-2023-3252 is an arbitrary file write vulnerability in the Nessus product by Tenable, impacting versions prior to 10.6.0. It enables attackers to overwrite essential files, leading to a potential denial of service situation.

The Impact of CVE-2023-3252

The impact of this vulnerability is categorized by the CAPEC-23 File Content Injection attack pattern, which signifies a medium severity threat. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could significantly disrupt the availability of the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-3252

This vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 6.8, with a HIGH availability impact. The attack complexity is rated as LOW, with privileges required being HIGH. The attack vector is through the NETWORK and the scope is CHANGED.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows authenticated remote attackers to alter logging variables and overwrite essential files on the target system, potentially causing a denial of service condition.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Nessus versions below 10.6.0 on various platforms including Windows, Linux, and MacOS.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with administrator privileges can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating logging variables to overwrite critical files with log data, leading to a denial of service.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-3252, immediate actions and long-term security practices are crucial to mitigate risks and bolster overall system security.

Immediate Steps to Take

It is recommended to update the affected Nessus installations to version 10.6.0 or higher. Tenable has released a patch to address this vulnerability, available for download from the Tenable Downloads Portal.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust access controls, regularly updating systems, monitoring for unauthorized activities, and conducting security audits can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely patching and updates to all software components, including security solutions like Nessus, to stay protected against evolving cybersecurity threats.