CVE-2023-28319 is a high-severity vulnerability found in curl, specifically in versions prior to 8.1.0. This vulnerability allows for a use after free condition in the way libcurl handles the verification of an SSH server's public key. Notably, when the verification fails, libcurl erroneously frees the memory allocated for the fingerprint before returning an error message that contains the now-freed hash. This flaw risks inserting sensitive heap-based data into the error message, which could potentially be displayed to users or leaked.
The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) version 3.1 assigns this vulnerability a score of 7.5, categorizing it as high severity. The attack vector is network-based, with low complexity, meaning that no special conditions are required for an attacker to exploit this flaw. Importantly, no user interaction or special privileges are needed to trigger this vulnerability.
Risk to organizations includes potential exposure of sensitive data, which can significantly undermine user trust and lead to compliance violations. Given the nature of this vulnerability and its potential impact, organizations must prioritize patching immediately.
Currently, there is no known exploit available, nor has this vulnerability been listed in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog. However, the potential risk it presents necessitates urgent attention from all affected parties.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability is described in detail as follows: A use after free vulnerability exists in curl <v8.1.0 in the way libcurl offers a feature to verify an SSH server's public key using a SHA 256 hash. When this check fails, libcurl would free the memory for the fingerprint before it returns an error message containing the (now freed) hash.
This vulnerability is classified under CWE-416, which pertains to use after free vulnerabilities.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper management of memory allocation and deallocation within the libcurl library. When the verification of an SSH server's public key fails, the library mistakenly frees the memory before it can safely return the error message. This can lead to sensitive data being inadvertently exposed. The attack vector is network-based, allowing an attacker to potentially exploit this vulnerability remotely.
The attack complexity is low, and no privileges are required to exploit this vulnerability. Additionally, user interaction is not necessary, thereby increasing the risk associated with this flaw. The confidentiality impact is rated high, as sensitive information could be leaked, while integrity and availability impacts are rated as none.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Organizations using affected versions of curl, particularly in networked environments, face significant risks associated with this vulnerability. The potential for sensitive data exposure can have severe implications, including data breaches and loss of user trust. This vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date software and vigilant monitoring of security advisories.
Given the CVSS score of 7.5 and the high confidentiality impact, organizations must address this vulnerability in their patch management cycle. The urgency for remediation is high, and organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The vulnerable versions of curl are those less than 8.1.0, as well as specific versions of macOS and NetApp products. Affected configurations include:
1. curl versions < 8.1.0 2. macOS versions from 11.0 to 11.7.8 and 12.0 to 12.6.7 3. NetApp clustered_data_ontap and ontap_antivirus_connector 4. h300s, h500s, h700s, and h410s firmware from NetApp.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should ensure they are using the latest version of curl, specifically version 8.1.0 or higher, to mitigate this vulnerability. Additionally, users of macOS and NetApp products should check for available updates and apply security patches as soon as possible.
Further, organizations may consider implementing network controls to limit exposure and monitor for any unusual behavior that could indicate an exploit attempt. Regular security assessments and penetration testing can also help in identifying vulnerabilities.
For more comprehensive security strategies, organizations can review our guide on penetration testing and how it can help in strengthening their security posture.
Detection Guidance
To detect potential exploitation of this vulnerability, organizations should monitor logs for unusual error messages or memory access errors related to SSH key verification. Behavioral anomalies in applications using libcurl could indicate attempts to exploit this vulnerability.
Network signatures should be developed to identify abnormal traffic patterns that could signify exploitation attempts. Regular reviews of system changes and security logs are also recommended to identify potential indicators of compromise.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2023-28319 represents a critical reminder of the vulnerabilities that can arise from improper memory management. Security teams should remain vigilant and ensure that they are applying updates promptly to mitigate similar risks in the future. Monitoring for potential exploitation and conducting regular security assessments will aid in protecting against such vulnerabilities.
Organizations can strengthen their defenses by implementing a robust security framework, including ongoing penetration testing methodology to identify and remediate vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
Additionally, it is crucial for organizations to stay updated with security advisories, ensuring they are aware of new vulnerabilities and can respond promptly.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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