CVE-2023-39431
📋 TL;DR
CVE-2023-39431 is an out-of-bounds write vulnerability in Sante DICOM Viewer Pro due to improper validation of user-supplied DICOM files, allowing arbitrary code execution in the current process context. This affects users of the vulnerable software, particularly in healthcare and medical imaging environments where DICOM files are processed.
💻 Affected Systems
- Sante DICOM Viewer Pro
📦 What is this software?
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
An attacker could execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the current user, potentially leading to full system compromise, data theft, or disruption of medical imaging operations.
Likely Case
Exploitation could result in remote code execution, enabling attackers to install malware, exfiltrate sensitive medical data, or pivot to other systems on the network.
If Mitigated
With proper controls like network segmentation and least privilege, impact may be limited to isolated systems or prevented if patches are applied promptly.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires an attacker to supply a crafted DICOM file, which could be delivered via email, web, or network shares. No public proof-of-concept is known, but the vulnerability is critical and may be targeted.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Check vendor advisory for specific patched version.
Vendor Advisory: https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/ics-medical-advisories/icsma-23-285-01
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Review the CISA advisory for details. 2. Contact the vendor for the latest patched version. 3. Apply the patch to all affected systems. 4. Restart the application or system as required.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Restrict DICOM file sources
allLimit processing of DICOM files to trusted sources only, such as internal networks or verified medical devices.
Use application whitelisting
windowsImplement application control to prevent unauthorized execution of code, reducing the impact of potential exploitation.
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Isolate affected systems on segmented networks to limit lateral movement.
- Implement strict access controls and monitor for unusual file processing activities.
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check the software version against the vendor's patched release; if using an older version, assume vulnerability.Check Version:
Consult the software's help or about menu for version details; no universal command provided.Verify Fix Applied:
Update to the patched version specified by the vendor and confirm no errors occur when parsing test DICOM files.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unexpected crashes or errors in Sante DICOM Viewer logs when processing files
- Unusual process creation or network connections from the viewer
Network Indicators:
- Inbound transfers of DICOM files from untrusted sources
- Outbound connections to suspicious IPs post-file processing
SIEM Query:
Example: 'process_name:"Sante DICOM Viewer" AND event_type:crash' or 'file_type:DICOM AND source_ip:external'