CVE-2023-51385 : What You Need to Know

This article provides an overview of CVE-2023-51385, a vulnerability found in OpenSSH before version 9.6. The vulnerability could lead to OS command injection under certain circumstances.

Understanding CVE-2023-51385

CVE-2023-51385 is a security weakness in OpenSSH that may allow OS command injection when a user name or host name containing shell metacharacters is referenced by an expansion token in specific scenarios.

What is CVE-2023-51385?

The CVE-2023-51385 vulnerability affects OpenSSH versions prior to 9.6, opening the possibility for OS command injection by using shell metacharacters in specific user or host names referenced by an expansion token.

The Impact of CVE-2023-51385

If exploited, CVE-2023-51385 could enable threat actors to execute arbitrary OS commands, potentially compromising the security and integrity of the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-51385

CVE-2023-51385 arises from a flaw in OpenSSH's handling of user and host names with shell metacharacters, leading to the potential for OS command injection.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability lies in the interaction between user/host names, expansion tokens, and shell metacharacters, making it possible for an untrusted Git repository to contain submodules with malicious user/host names.

Affected Systems and Versions

All OpenSSH versions prior to 9.6 are affected by CVE-2023-51385. Users of OpenSSH versions before this revision should be cautious of possible OS command injection.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2023-51385 involves creating a scenario where a user/host name containing shell metacharacters is referenced by an expansion token, allowing an attacker to execute unauthorized OS commands.

Mitigation and Prevention

To protect systems from CVE-2023-51385, immediate steps as well as long-term security practices should be implemented.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update OpenSSH to version 9.6 or later to mitigate the risk of OS command injection. Additionally, be cautious when interacting with untrusted repositories that may contain submodules with shell metacharacters.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure coding practices, validate user inputs, and regularly update software to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and promptly install patches for known vulnerabilities to maintain a secure system environment.