CVE-2023-1707 in Enterprise LaserJetPrinter
Summary
by MITRE • 06/13/2023
Certain HP Enterprise LaserJet and HP LaserJet Managed Printers are potentially vulnerable to information disclosure when IPsec is enabled with FutureSmart version 5.6.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/03/2025
This vulnerability affects HP Enterprise LaserJet and HP LaserJet Managed Printers that operate with FutureSmart version 5.6 when IPsec encryption is enabled. The issue stems from improper handling of cryptographic parameters during the IPsec configuration process, creating a potential information disclosure channel that could allow unauthorized access to sensitive network communications. The flaw represents a significant security risk for enterprise environments where print devices serve as critical nodes in corporate networks and handle confidential data flows.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the insecure processing of IPsec security associations and key exchange mechanisms within the printer's firmware. When IPsec is enabled, the device fails to properly validate or sanitize cryptographic parameters, potentially allowing attackers to extract information about the underlying network configuration or intercept communications that should remain encrypted. This behavior aligns with CWE-310, which addresses cryptographic issues related to improper implementation of cryptographic protocols, and specifically relates to weaknesses in key management and parameter validation. The vulnerability exists at the intersection of network security protocols and embedded device firmware, creating a pathway for information leakage that could compromise the integrity of encrypted communications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it could enable attackers to gain insights into network topology, security configurations, and potentially facilitate more sophisticated attacks. In enterprise environments, compromised printer communications could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive documents, disruption of print services, or serve as a foothold for lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability affects managed print environments where security is paramount, potentially exposing organizations to regulatory compliance violations and data breach risks. Organizations utilizing HP LaserJet printers with IPsec enabled should consider this a critical security concern that could undermine their overall network security posture.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate firmware updates from HP to address the specific implementation flaw in FutureSmart version 5.6, along with comprehensive network monitoring to detect anomalous communications patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should also implement network segmentation to limit the potential impact of compromised devices and consider disabling IPsec on affected printers until proper patches are deployed. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of thorough security testing for embedded devices and highlights the need for robust cryptographic implementation practices in network infrastructure equipment. Organizations should review their print management policies and consider alternative security configurations that do not rely on potentially vulnerable cryptographic implementations while maintaining necessary security controls.