CVE-2023-1526 in DesignJet
Summary
by MITRE • 04/28/2023
Certain DesignJet and PageWide XL TAA compliant models may have risk of potential information disclosure if the hard disk drive is physically removed from the printer.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/30/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-1526 affects specific DesignJet and PageWide XL printer models that are compliant with the Trusted Analytics and Assessment (TAA) standards. This security flaw represents a significant physical security risk that stems from inadequate data protection mechanisms within the printer's storage architecture. The vulnerability specifically manifests when an attacker gains physical access to the device and removes the hard disk drive, potentially exposing sensitive information that should remain protected within the device's storage systems. This issue falls under the broader category of physical security vulnerabilities that can compromise data confidentiality and integrity.
The technical flaw in question resides in the printer's handling of data storage and access controls when the hard disk drive is physically removed from the device. Modern printers often store various types of information including print job history, user credentials, network configurations, and potentially sensitive operational data. When the hard disk drive can be physically extracted without proper encryption or access control mechanisms, it creates an attack vector that allows unauthorized individuals to directly access the stored data. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the physical layer of security, bypassing any software-based protections that may be in place. This type of vulnerability is classified as a weakness in data protection mechanisms and aligns with CWE-310, which addresses cryptographic weaknesses and improper handling of sensitive data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure, as it represents a fundamental failure in the printer's security design. Organizations relying on these devices for sensitive printing operations face potential risks including intellectual property theft, unauthorized access to confidential documents, and violation of data protection regulations. The risk is particularly elevated in environments where physical security controls are inadequate or where unauthorized personnel have access to printer maintenance areas. Attackers could potentially extract user authentication information, document metadata, or other sensitive operational data that could be used for further attacks or malicious activities. This vulnerability undermines the trust placed in TAA-compliant devices and highlights the importance of considering physical security aspects in the overall security architecture of networked printing systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-1526 should focus on both immediate physical security measures and longer-term architectural improvements. Organizations should implement strict physical access controls around printer devices, including secure storage areas and monitoring of maintenance activities. The affected printer models should be evaluated for firmware updates or replacement with versions that properly encrypt data at rest or implement access controls that prevent data extraction when the drive is removed. Security teams should also consider implementing full disk encryption on printer storage systems and establishing procedures for secure disposal or decommissioning of printer devices. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of considering the complete attack surface of networked devices and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1567 which covers "Exfiltration Over Web Service' and T1486 which addresses 'Data Encrypted for Impact'. Proper implementation of these security measures would significantly reduce the risk of information disclosure through physical removal of storage components.