CVE-2023-21418 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting Axis AXIS OS, identified by a CVSS score of 7.1. This vulnerability allows path traversal attacks via the VAPIX API irissetup.cgi, enabling authenticated users to delete files. The impact is particularly serious when exploited by users with administrator privileges, though operator accounts can also pose a risk. As Axis has released patched versions of AXIS OS, it is critical for organizations to address this vulnerability swiftly to prevent potential exploitation.
The vulnerability can be exploited post-authentication, which means that attackers must have operator or administrator access to exploit it. However, the impact is notably lower for operator accounts, as they can only affect non-system files. Given the nature of the threat, organizations must evaluate their current deployment of Axis OS and ensure that they have implemented the latest security patches.
The urgency for defenders is high; organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate risks associated with CVE-2023-21418. Failure to do so could result in unauthorized file deletions and potential disruption of services.
Axis has published a security advisory detailing the vulnerability and providing guidance on remediation. Organizations are encouraged to review the advisory thoroughly to understand the implications and necessary steps to secure their systems.
Vulnerability Details
According to the official description, the vulnerability allows for file deletion through path traversal in the VAPIX API endpoint irissetup.cgi. The flaw can be exploited only after successful authentication with either an operator or administrator service account. The severity of this vulnerability is highlighted by its CVSS score of 7.1, indicating a high-risk potential.
The CVSS vector for this vulnerability is CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:L/A:H, which describes a network attack vector with low complexity and low privileges required. The potential impacts include low integrity and high availability risks, underscoring the necessity for immediate action to patch affected systems.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2023-21418 lies in improper input validation within the irissetup.cgi API, which fails to adequately sanitize file paths. This oversight allows attackers to craft malicious requests that traverse the filesystem, potentially leading to unauthorized file deletions.
The attack vector is network-based, requiring low attack complexity as the attacker only needs valid credentials. Privileges required to exploit this vulnerability are low, making it accessible to a range of attackers who have obtained operator or administrator access. User interaction is not required for successful exploitation.
The confidentiality impact is none, while the integrity impact is low and the availability impact is high. This indicates that the main risk lies in the potential for service disruption rather than unauthorized access to sensitive information.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world risk associated with CVE-2023-21418 is significant, particularly for organizations that rely on Axis products for critical operations. The ability for authenticated users to delete files could lead to operational disruptions, loss of important data, or even extended downtime if not addressed.
Organizations must consider the blast radius of this vulnerability. Any user with operator or administrator access could potentially exploit this flaw, increasing the urgency for organizations to evaluate who has access to these accounts and to implement strict access controls where necessary.
Given the CVSS score and the ongoing risk posed by this vulnerability, organizations should prioritize patching immediately. The publication of patches by Axis provides a clear path to remediation that should not be overlooked.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
Affected versions include all versions prior to vendor patch for Axis OS, specifically versions prior to 6.50.5.15, 11.7.57 for active systems, 8.40.35 for Axis OS 2018, 9.80.49 for Axis OS 2020, and 10.12.213 for Axis OS 2022.
Mitigation & Remediation
Axis has released patched versions to remediate this vulnerability. Organizations should upgrade to the latest versions of AXIS OS as specified in the vendor advisory. In addition to applying patches, organizations should consider implementing additional security measures such as restricting access to sensitive APIs and conducting regular security assessments.
For further guidance, organizations may refer to the recommended practices in the Axis security advisory and consider engaging in penetration testing to evaluate their security posture.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for indicators of unauthorized access or file deletion attempts. Behavioral anomalies in API usage may also signal attempts to exploit this vulnerability. Ensuring that logs are detailed and regularly reviewed will enhance the ability to detect potential exploitation.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2023-21418 lies in its representation of vulnerabilities that arise from inadequate input validation in APIs. This incident serves as a reminder for security teams to prioritize secure coding practices and regular vulnerability assessments.
Organizations should be vigilant about the security of their API endpoints, as they are often targeted by attackers. Engaging in proactive measures such as API security testing can help identify and mitigate such vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
Furthermore, aligning security practices with industry standards and frameworks will help in building resilience against future vulnerabilities. For further reading on enhancing security practices, organizations may explore resources on penetration testing methodologies and best practices.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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