CVE-2023-3470 is a medium-severity vulnerability found in specific F5 BIG-IP platforms that utilize Cavium Nitrox FIPS HSM cards. This vulnerability allows for the generation of a deterministic password for the Crypto User account. The predictable nature of this password means that an authenticated user with TMSH access to the BIG-IP system, or anyone with physical access to the FIPS HSM, can generate the correct password. In vCMP systems, all Guests share the same deterministic password, which enables users with TMSH access on one Guest to access keys of a different Guest.
The affected F5 BIG-IP hardware platforms include 10350v-F, i5820-DF, i7820-DF, i15820-DF, 5250v-F, 7200v-F, 10200v-F, 6900-F, 8900-F, 11000-F, and 11050-F. The BIG-IP rSeries r5920-DF and r10920-DF are not affected. Additionally, this issue does not impact software FIPS implementations or network HSM configurations. Organizations using affected systems must take immediate action to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 6.0, indicating a medium severity level. The attack vector is classified as local, and the attack complexity is low, meaning that an attacker may exploit this vulnerability with relatively little effort. The potential risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to sensitive information, highlighting the necessity for prompt remediation.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. This vulnerability poses a significant risk, and timely updates are essential to safeguard sensitive data and maintain system integrity.
Vulnerability Details
CVE-2023-3470 enables the generation of predictable passwords for the Crypto User account on affected F5 BIG-IP systems, specifically those using Cavium Nitrox FIPS HSM cards. The vulnerability allows authentic users with TMSH access to exploit the flaw. The CVSS score of 6.0 reflects a medium severity level, with potential consequences for confidentiality and integrity.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2023-3470 lies in the deterministic password generation mechanism utilized by certain F5 BIG-IP platforms. The attack vector is classified as local, requiring physical or authenticated access to exploit the vulnerability. The attack complexity is low, meaning that an attacker does not require advanced skills to exploit this flaw. Privileges required are high, as the attacker must be an authenticated user on the affected system.
User interaction is not required for this vulnerability, allowing attackers to exploit it without any action from legitimate users. The confidentiality and integrity impacts are both rated as high, indicating that sensitive information may be compromised and altered. Availability impact is rated as none.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to cryptographic keys and sensitive data due to the predictable password generation. Given the high confidentiality and integrity impacts, organizations must be vigilant in mitigating these risks. The score of 6.0 indicates a medium severity that should prompt organizations to act, especially if they operate in environments where sensitive information is handled.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The following versions of F5 BIG-IP are affected by CVE-2023-3470: 10350v-F, i5820-DF, i7820-DF, i15820-DF, 5250v-F, 7200v-F, 10200v-F, 6900-F, 8900-F, 11000-F, and 11050-F. All versions prior to vendor patch are vulnerable.
Mitigation & Remediation
F5 has provided a patch for affected systems. Organizations should upgrade to the latest version of BIG-IP to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-3470. If a patch cannot be applied immediately, consider implementing additional security controls, such as limiting TMSH access and monitoring for suspicious activities. To ensure robust security, organizations may consider engaging in penetration testing to validate the effectiveness of security measures in place.
Detection Guidance
To detect potential exploitation of this vulnerability, organizations should monitor logs for unusual access patterns to the Crypto User account. Additionally, any behavioral anomalies related to TMSH access should be investigated promptly, including unauthorized attempts to access cryptographic keys. Network signatures indicating access to the affected systems should be logged and analyzed.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2023-3470 illustrates a broader trend of vulnerabilities related to password management in security devices. Organizations must recognize the potential implications of deterministic password generation, especially in environments where high levels of confidentiality and integrity are required. Security teams should prioritize regular assessments of their systems and ensure that robust patch management processes are in place. It is also crucial to establish a culture of security awareness among users to minimize the risks of exploitation.
For further reading on security practices, organizations can refer to resources such as vulnerability management program design and penetration testing methodology to enhance 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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