CVE-2023-36851 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A Missing Authentication for Critical Function vulnerability in Juniper Networks Junos OS on SRX Series allows an unauthenticated, network-based attacker to cause limited impact to the file system integrity.

Understanding CVE-2023-36851

This CVE involves a vulnerability in J-Web that enables an unauthenticated attacker to upload arbitrary files, potentially compromising the file system integrity.

What is CVE-2023-36851?

A Missing Authentication for Critical Function vulnerability in Juniper Networks Junos OS on SRX Series allows attackers to upload arbitrary files via J-Web without authentication, causing potential integrity loss.

The Impact of CVE-2023-36851

The vulnerability can lead to a loss of file system integrity and may allow chaining to other vulnerabilities, posing a security risk to affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-36851

The following minimal configuration is necessary:

[system services web-management http]

or

[system services web-management https]

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in J-Web allows unauthenticated attackers to upload arbitrary files, impacting file system integrity in Juniper Networks Junos OS on SRX Series.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected versions include 22.4 versions prior to 22,4R2-S2, 22.4R3 and 23.2 versions prior to 23.2R2.

Exploitation Mechanism

While Juniper SIRT has not witnessed successful exploits, proof of concept and exploit attempts have been detected, highlighting the importance of mitigating this vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to address the CVE and implement long-term security measures to safeguard against such vulnerabilities.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable J-Web or limit access to trusted hosts to mitigate the risk of arbitrary file uploads.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update Juniper Networks Junos OS to the latest software releases that resolve the vulnerability.

Patching and Updates

The following software releases have been updated to resolve this issue: 22.4R2-S2, 22.4R3, 23.2R2, 23.4R1, and all subsequent releases. Pending Publication