CVE-2023-37863 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides an in-depth analysis of CVE-2023-37863, detailing the vulnerability, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

Understanding CVE-2023-37863

CVE-2023-37863 is a critical vulnerability found in PHOENIX CONTACT's WP 6xxx series web panels, specifically affecting versions prior to 4.0.10. It allows a remote attacker with SNMPv2 write privileges to gain full access to the device.

What is CVE-2023-37863?

The CVE-2023-37863 vulnerability enables a malicious actor to exploit SNMPv2 write privileges to execute special SNMP requests, ultimately leading to unauthorized access to the affected device.

The Impact of CVE-2023-37863

With a CVSSv3.1 base score of 7.2, CVE-2023-37863 poses a high severity risk. The vulnerability results in high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system, making it crucial to address promptly.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-37863

The vulnerability in PHOENIX CONTACT's WP 6xxx series web panels arises due to improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS Command, specifically related to OS Command Injection (CWE-78).

Vulnerability Description

In versions prior to 4.0.10 of the WP 6xxx series web panels, a remote attacker with SNMPv2 write privileges can exploit a special SNMP request to gain unauthorized access to the device.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected products include WP 6070-WVPS, WP 6101-WXPS, WP 6121-WXPS, WP 6156-WHPS, WP 6185-WHPS, and WP 6215-WHPS by PHOENIX CONTACT, with versions less than 4.0.10.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability leverages SNMPv2 write privileges through a special SNMP request to execute unauthorized commands on the web panels, leading to complete device compromise.

Mitigation and Prevention

Given the severity of CVE-2023-37863, immediate action is required to mitigate the risk and prevent exploitation. Here are some key steps to enhance security:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update affected WP 6xxx series web panels to version 4.0.10 or above.
Restrict SNMP access and privileges to trusted entities.
Monitor SNMP activity for any suspicious behavior.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly apply security patches and updates to all devices.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential security breaches.

Patching and Updates

PHOENIX CONTACT has released version 4.0.10 to address CVE-2023-37863. Ensure all web panels are promptly updated to this secure version to prevent exploitation.