CVE-2023-25611 in FortiAnalyzer
Summary
by MITRE • 03/07/2023
A improper neutralization of formula elements in a CSV file vulnerability in Fortinet FortiAnalyzer 6.4.0 - 6.4.9, 7.0.0 - 7.0.5, and 7.2.0 - 7.2.1 allows local attacker to execute unauthorized code or commands via inserting spreadsheet formulas in macro names.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/01/2023
This vulnerability resides in Fortinet FortiAnalyzer versions 6.4.0 through 6.4.9, 7.0.0 through 7.0.5, and 7.2.0 through 7.2.1, representing a critical improper neutralization of formula elements within CSV file processing. The flaw specifically manifests when the system processes CSV files containing spreadsheet formulas embedded within macro names, creating a dangerous condition where malicious code execution becomes possible. This issue fundamentally stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data during CSV import operations, particularly when these files contain formula elements that could be interpreted by spreadsheet applications. The vulnerability classifies under CWE-15 as improper neutralization of data within a CSV file, which directly enables command injection attacks through crafted spreadsheet formulas. Attackers exploiting this weakness can manipulate CSV files to include malicious formulas that execute arbitrary code when processed by FortiAnalyzer, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through local attacker capabilities, meaning that an adversary with access to the system or ability to upload malicious files can leverage this flaw. When FortiAnalyzer processes a CSV file containing formulas within macro names, the system fails to properly sanitize these elements, allowing malicious formulas to be interpreted as executable commands. This creates a path for privilege escalation and unauthorized code execution, as the system processes the malicious formulas without proper validation or neutralization. The attack vector specifically targets the CSV import functionality, where spreadsheet formulas such as those beginning with =, +, -, or @ characters can be embedded within macro names, bypassing normal security controls. This vulnerability represents a significant threat to data integrity and system security, as it allows attackers to execute commands with the privileges of the FortiAnalyzer service account.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, potentially enabling full system compromise and data exfiltration. Local attackers can leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to sensitive network monitoring data, system configurations, and potentially escalate privileges to gain administrative control over the FortiAnalyzer appliance. The vulnerability's presence in multiple version ranges indicates a widespread exposure across Fortinet's FortiAnalyzer product line, affecting organizations relying on these monitoring solutions for security operations. Organizations may experience unauthorized access to network traffic logs, security event data, and system management information, potentially leading to complete loss of security monitoring capabilities and exposure of critical infrastructure. The impact is particularly severe in environments where FortiAnalyzer serves as a central security information and event management system, as compromise of this system can undermine the entire security posture of the organization.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of affected FortiAnalyzer versions to the latest available releases that contain proper formula neutralization mechanisms. Organizations should implement strict CSV file validation and sanitization procedures before importing any external data into the FortiAnalyzer system, ensuring that all spreadsheet formulas are properly neutralized or removed from macro names. Network segmentation and access control measures should be reinforced to limit local access to FortiAnalyzer systems, reducing the attack surface for potential exploitation. Additionally, implementing monitoring and alerting for unusual CSV import activities or command execution patterns can help detect exploitation attempts. Security teams should also conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify similar weaknesses in other network monitoring and security appliances within their infrastructure, ensuring comprehensive protection against similar formula injection vulnerabilities. The remediation process should include thorough testing of patched systems to ensure that the vulnerability is fully addressed without introducing regressions in normal CSV processing functionality.