CVE-2023-36631 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A detailed overview of the CVE-2023-36631 vulnerability in Malwarebytes Binisoft Windows Firewall Control version 6.9.2.0 allowing local unprivileged users to bypass Windows Firewall restrictions.

Understanding CVE-2023-36631

This section delves into the specifics of CVE-2023-36631, shedding light on the impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-36631?

The CVE-2023-36631 vulnerability arises from a lack of access control in wfc.exe in Malwarebytes Binisoft Windows Firewall Control 6.9.2.0. It enables local unprivileged users to circumvent Windows Firewall restrictions through the user interface's rules tab.

The Impact of CVE-2023-36631

Despite being disputed by the vendor as an intended behavior that can be password-locked, this vulnerability poses a security risk by potentially allowing unauthorized access through Windows Firewall.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-36631

In this section, we explore the vulnerability description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism of CVE-2023-36631.

Vulnerability Description

The lack of access control in wfc.exe in Malwarebytes Binisoft Windows Firewall Control 6.9.2.0 permits local unprivileged users to bypass Windows Firewall restrictions via the rules tab.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Malwarebytes Binisoft Windows Firewall Control version 6.9.2.0.

Exploitation Mechanism

In a local environment, unprivileged users can exploit this vulnerability using the user interface's rules tab to bypass Windows Firewall restrictions.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines immediate steps to take and long-term security practices to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-36631.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to review firewall settings, restrict access to critical systems, and monitor network activity for any suspicious behavior.

Long-Term Security Practices

It is recommended to regularly update software, implement least privilege access controls, and conduct security training for users to enhance overall cybersecurity.

Patching and Updates

Keep the Malwarebytes Binisoft Windows Firewall Control up to date with the latest patches and security updates to address the CVE-2023-36631 vulnerability.