CVE-2023-44857
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on Cobham SAILOR VSAT Ku systems via a crafted script targeting the acu_web component. It affects users of Cobham SAILOR VSAT Ku software version 164B019, potentially compromising satellite communication systems.
💻 Affected Systems
- Cobham SAILOR VSAT Ku
📦 What is this software?
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Full system compromise leading to unauthorized control of satellite communications, data theft, or disruption of maritime operations.
Likely Case
Remote code execution enabling attackers to install malware, exfiltrate sensitive data, or pivot to other network segments.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if network segmentation and strict access controls prevent exploitation attempts.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation involves crafting a script to target the sub_21D24 function, but no public proof-of-concept has been confirmed.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Unknown
Vendor Advisory: No vendor advisory URL provided in references.
Restart Required: No
Instructions:
Check with Cobham for official patches or updates; if unavailable, apply workarounds and monitor for vendor releases.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Network Segmentation
allIsolate the SAILOR VSAT Ku system from untrusted networks to limit remote access.
Disable Unnecessary Services
allTurn off the acu_web component if not required for operations to reduce attack surface.
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement strict firewall rules to block external access to the affected system.
- Monitor network traffic for unusual patterns or script injection attempts targeting the acu_web component.
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check the software version on the Cobham SAILOR VSAT Ku device; if it is v.164B019, it is likely vulnerable.Check Version:
Consult Cobham documentation or device interface for version information; specific commands may vary by system.Verify Fix Applied:
Verify by updating to a patched version from Cobham and confirming the acu_web component no longer accepts crafted scripts.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Log entries showing script execution or errors in the acu_web component.
Network Indicators:
- Unusual network traffic to the acu_web service, such as unexpected script payloads.
SIEM Query:
Example: 'source="acu_web" AND (event="script_injection" OR status="error")'