CVE-2023-36547 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A critical vulnerability has been discovered in Fortinet FortiWLM versions 8.6.0 through 8.6.5 and 8.5.0 through 8.5.4. Attackers can exploit this flaw to execute unauthorized code or commands through specially crafted HTTP GET request parameters.

Understanding CVE-2023-36547

This section delves into the specifics of CVE-2023-36547, shedding light on its impact and technical details.

What is CVE-2023-36547?

The vulnerability, classified under CVE-2023-36547, involves improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command ('OS command injection') in Fortinet FortiWLM. This security flaw allows attackers to execute unauthorized code or commands by manipulating HTTP GET request parameters.

The Impact of CVE-2023-36547

The impact of CVE-2023-36547 is severe, with a CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.6 (Critical). The attack complexity is low, but the availability, confidentiality, and integrity impacts are high. This vulnerability does not require any special privileges from the attacker and can be exploited over a network without user interaction.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-36547

Let's explore the technical specifics of CVE-2023-36547, focusing on the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

CVE-2023-36547 involves an OS command injection flaw in FortiWLM versions 8.6.0 through 8.6.5 and 8.5.0 through 8.5.4. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to run unauthorized code or commands by crafting malicious HTTP GET request parameters.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts Fortinet's FortiWLM product, specifically versions 8.6.0 to 8.6.5 and 8.5.0 to 8.5.4. Organizations using these versions are at risk of exploitation and unauthorized code execution.

Exploitation Mechanism

By sending specifically crafted HTTP GET requests, threat actors can exploit CVE-2023-36547 within vulnerable FortiWLM installations. This manipulation allows attackers to execute unauthorized commands, posing a significant security risk.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard your systems from CVE-2023-36547, immediate actions and long-term security practices are crucial. Patch management and software updates play a pivotal role in mitigating such vulnerabilities.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations are advised to upgrade to FortiWLM version 8.6.6 or above, or FortiWLM version 8.5.5 or above. Applying these patches promptly will help address the security flaw and protect systems from exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

In addition to patching, implementing robust security measures, conducting regular vulnerability assessments, and ensuring secure coding practices are essential for long-term security resilience.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitoring for security updates from Fortinet and promptly applying patches is crucial to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.