CVE-2023-21409
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability allows unprivileged users to access administrator credentials due to insufficient file permissions. Attackers could use these credentials to reconfigure the application. This affects systems running vulnerable versions of the affected software.
💻 Affected Systems
- Axis network devices and software (specific models not detailed in provided references)
📦 What is this software?
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Full system compromise where attackers gain administrative access, reconfigure the application, and potentially pivot to other systems.
Likely Case
Unauthorized users gain administrative privileges and modify application settings, potentially disrupting operations or enabling further attacks.
If Mitigated
Limited impact with proper access controls and monitoring, though credential exposure remains a concern.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires local access to the system but is straightforward once access is gained.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Check Axis advisory for specific patched versions.
Vendor Advisory: https://www.axis.com/dam/public/0b/1c/96/cve-2023-2140712-en-US-409778.pdf
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Download the latest firmware from Axis support. 2. Backup current configuration. 3. Apply the firmware update via the device's web interface or management tool. 4. Restart the device as prompted.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Restrict file permissions
linuxManually adjust permissions on credential files to prevent unprivileged access.
chmod 600 /path/to/credential/file
chown root:root /path/to/credential/file
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Isolate affected systems from untrusted networks to limit access.
- Implement strict access controls and monitor for unauthorized file access attempts.
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check file permissions on credential files; if unprivileged users can read them, the system is vulnerable.Check Version:
Check device firmware version via web interface or CLI command specific to Axis devices.Verify Fix Applied:
Verify that credential files have restrictive permissions (e.g., 600) and are owned by root after patching.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Log entries showing unauthorized access to credential files or unexpected configuration changes.
Network Indicators:
- Unusual network traffic from the device indicating reconfigured settings.
SIEM Query:
Search for events related to file access on credential paths or administrative login attempts from non-privileged users.