CVE-2021-41032 is an improper access control vulnerability in Fortinet's FortiOS, affecting versions 6.4.8 and prior as well as 7.0.3 and prior. This vulnerability allows an authenticated attacker with a restricted user profile to gather sensitive information and modify the SSL-VPN tunnel status of other Virtual Domain (VDOMs) using specific Command Line Interface (CLI) commands. The vulnerability has been classified under CWE-284.
The severity of this vulnerability is rated medium with a CVSS score of 6.3. The attack vector is network-based, and it requires low complexity and low privileges. The risks associated with this vulnerability are concerning, as attackers may leverage this flaw to alter SSL-VPN settings, potentially impacting the confidentiality and integrity of the network.
Organizations using affected versions of FortiOS should prioritize patching to mitigate potential risks. Immediate action is recommended, as the vulnerability could be exploited to gain unauthorized information and control over SSL-VPN configurations.
The vulnerability was published on May 4, 2022, and is still relevant. Organizations should ensure they are running patched versions of FortiOS to prevent exploitation.
Vulnerability Details
The official CVE description states that an improper access control vulnerability in FortiOS versions 6.4.8 and prior and 7.0.3 and prior may allow an authenticated attacker with a restricted user profile to gather sensitive information and modify the SSL-VPN tunnel status of other VDOMs using specific CLI commands.
The severity rating of this vulnerability is medium, with a CVSS 3.1 score of 6.3. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-284 for improper access control.
Affected products include FortiOS, and the vulnerability impacts all versions prior to the vendor patch. The publication date for this vulnerability was May 4, 2022.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2021-41032 is related to improper access controls, which allow a restricted user profile to execute commands that should be limited to higher privilege levels. The attack vector is network-based, which allows for remote exploitation.
In terms of attack complexity, the requirement for low privileges indicates that attackers only need to authenticate with a restricted user account. There is no user interaction required for the exploit, making it easier to execute.
The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is characterized as low. Attackers may access sensitive information, modify configurations, or interfere with availability, but the overall risk is contained due to the authentication requirement.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to sensitive information and the potential to modify critical configurations of SSL-VPNs, which may lead to wider network vulnerabilities. The ability to change the status of SSL-VPN tunnels can significantly impact an organization's security posture.
The urgency for organizations to address this vulnerability is high, given its medium severity and the potential for exploitation by authenticated users. Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to prevent unauthorized access and configuration changes.
With the CVSS score indicating a medium risk, the vulnerability is significant enough to warrant immediate attention, especially in environments where FortiOS is deployed.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions of FortiOS include all versions prior to the vendor patch, specifically FortiOS 6.4.8 and prior and 7.0.3 and prior. Organizations should ensure they are using patched versions to avoid exploitation.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should prioritize updating FortiOS to the latest patched version to remediate this vulnerability. If an immediate patch is unavailable, consider implementing configuration hardening and network controls to limit exposure.
For further details on security testing measures, organizations can refer to our penetration testing services.
Detection Guidance
To detect potential exploitation of this vulnerability, organizations should monitor logs for unusual commands executed by restricted user profiles and look for behavioral anomalies that might indicate unauthorized access.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2021-41032 represents a significant trend in access control vulnerabilities, highlighting the necessity for stringent user privilege management. Organizations should leverage this insight to improve their security frameworks.
For best practices in vulnerability management, organizations can explore our vulnerability management program and consider our security testing best practices to enhance defenses.
Lastly, organizations should consider conducting regular assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities and improve their security posture.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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