CVE-2023-35971 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A detailed analysis of CVE-2023-35971, focusing on the vulnerability in the ArubaOS web-based management interface, affecting products managed by Aruba Central and various versions of ArubaOS.

Understanding CVE-2023-35971

This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability and its impact on affected systems.

What is CVE-2023-35971?

CVE-2023-35971 refers to an unauthenticated stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the ArubaOS web-based management interface. It enables a remote attacker to execute arbitrary script code in a victim's browser without authentication.

The Impact of CVE-2023-35971

The vulnerability poses a high risk with a CVSS base score of 8.8 out of 10, indicating a significant impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-35971

Explore the technical aspects of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows an unauthenticated remote attacker to conduct a stored XSS attack against a user of the ArubaOS web-based management interface, potentially leading to the execution of malicious scripts within the user's browser.

Affected Systems and Versions

Products impacted include Aruba Mobility Conductor, Aruba Mobility Controllers, WLAN Gateways, and SD-WAN Gateways managed by Aruba Central. Specific versions of ArubaOS, such as 10.4.0.1 and below, 8.11.1.0 and below, 8.10.0.6 and below, and 8.6.0.20 and below, are vulnerable.

Exploitation Mechanism

The attack vector for this vulnerability is through an adjacent network, with no privileges required. The attacker needs to interact with the user to trigger the exploit, potentially leading to a compromise of the affected system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn how to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-35971, including immediate steps and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

It is recommended to apply vendor-supplied patches and updates to address the vulnerability promptly. Additionally, users should be cautious while interacting with the ArubaOS web-based management interface to avoid falling victim to XSS attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

To enhance security posture, organizations should regularly update their systems, implement security best practices, and conduct security awareness training to mitigate the risk of similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

HPE has released patches to address the vulnerability, and users are advised to update their affected systems to the latest secure versions provided by the vendor.