CVE-2023-5719 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This article provides insights into CVE-2023-5719, a vulnerability identified in Red Lion's Crimson 3.2 Windows-based configuration tool.

Understanding CVE-2023-5719

CVE-2023-5719 is a vulnerability in the Crimson 3.2 Windows-based configuration tool, allowing users with administrative access to define new passwords for users. If these passwords contain the percent (%) character, invalid values may be included, potentially truncating the string, and leaving the device vulnerable to compromised credentials.

What is CVE-2023-5719?

The Crimson 3.2 tool enables users to set passwords for users, but if a password includes the percent (%) character, it may lead to invalid values and potential truncation under certain circumstances. This could result in a vulnerability if not addressed.

The Impact of CVE-2023-5719

The vulnerability poses a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with a base severity score of 8.8 under CVSSv3.1. Attack complexity is low, but user interaction is required, making it crucial to address to prevent potential exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-5719

The vulnerability stems from improper neutralization of the null byte or NUL character (CWE-158) in password configurations within the Crimson 3.2 tool.

Vulnerability Description

Users defining passwords with the percent (%) character may introduce invalid values that can result in strings being truncated, potentially leaving devices vulnerable to compromised credentials.

Affected Systems and Versions

The issue affects Red Lion's Crimson tool versions up to and including v3.2.0053.18.

Exploitation Mechanism

An attacker could potentially exploit this vulnerability by manipulating password configurations that contain the percent (%) character, leading to the truncation of strings and compromising device security.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-5719 and enhance security measures, the following steps are recommended:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Crimson configuration tool to version 3.2.0063 or later.
Refrain from using the percent (%) character in passwords under v3.2.0053.18 or earlier versions.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update security configurations.
Educate users on secure password practices to mitigate such vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Red Lion advises updating to at least version 3.2.0063 and avoiding the use of the percent (%) character in passwords to mitigate the risk of exploitation. For detailed instructions, refer to Red Lion's provided security advisory RLCSIM-2023-04.

By following these recommendations, organizations can enhance the security of their systems and prevent potential exploitation of CVE-2023-5719.