CVE-2023-50019 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

An issue was discovered in open5gs v2.6.6 where the 'InitialUEMessage' Registration request sent at a specific time can crash AMF due to incorrect error handling of Nudm_UECM_Registration response.

Understanding CVE-2023-50019

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in open5gs v2.6.6 that could lead to a denial of service (DoS) attack on AMF, potentially disrupting network operations.

What is CVE-2023-50019?

CVE-2023-50019 highlights a flaw in the error handling mechanism of Nudm_UECM_Registration response within open5gs v2.6.6, allowing a crafted Registration request to cause a crash in AMF.

The Impact of CVE-2023-50019

The vulnerability could be exploited by malicious actors to disrupt AMF functionality, potentially resulting in a denial of service condition affecting the network's availability and performance.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-50019

This section will cover the specific technical aspects of the CVE, including the nature of the vulnerability and its implications.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in open5gs v2.6.6 arises from the incorrect error handling of Nudm_UECM_Registration response, triggered by a particular Registration request timing, leading to a crash in AMF.

Affected Systems and Versions

All versions of open5gs v2.6.6 are affected by this vulnerability, potentially impacting systems utilizing this specific release.

Exploitation Mechanism

By manipulating the timing and content of the 'InitialUEMessage' Registration request, threat actors can exploit the flaw to send a crafted response, triggering a crash in AMF.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section will outline the steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-50019 and prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations should consider implementing network segmentation, firewall rules, and intrusion detection systems to detect and prevent suspicious activity targeting the AMF component.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regular security assessments, code reviews, and thorough testing of network components can help identify and address potential vulnerabilities before they are exploited.

Patching and Updates

Open5gs users are advised to apply the latest patches and updates provided by the project maintainers to address the vulnerability in open5gs v2.6.6 and enhance the overall security posture.