CVE-2023-2729 in DiskStation Manager
Summary
by MITRE • 06/13/2023
Use of insufficiently random values vulnerability in User Management Functionality in Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM) before 7.2-64561 allows remote attackers to obtain user credential via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/08/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-2729 represents a critical weakness in the user management functionality of Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM) versions prior to 7.2-64561. This issue falls under the category of insufficient randomness in cryptographic operations, which is formally classified as CWE-330. The flaw manifests in the way the system generates random values during user credential processes, creating predictable patterns that can be exploited by remote attackers to compromise user accounts. The vulnerability affects the core authentication mechanisms of the DSM platform, which serves as the primary interface for managing network-attached storage systems in enterprise and home environments.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the use of weak random number generators within the user management modules of DSM. When users create accounts or undergo authentication processes, the system relies on random values for generating session tokens, password reset codes, or other security parameters. However, the random number generation algorithm employed in affected versions produces sequences with insufficient entropy, making it possible for attackers to predict or reproduce these values through statistical analysis or brute force techniques. This weakness is particularly dangerous because it operates at the credential management layer, where successful exploitation would directly compromise user authentication mechanisms.
Operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it provides attackers with a foothold for further system compromise within Synology NAS environments. The remote nature of the attack vector means that adversaries can exploit this weakness without requiring physical access to the devices, making it particularly concerning for organizations that rely on DSM for critical data storage and management. The unspecified attack vectors suggest that multiple entry points within the user management functionality could be compromised, potentially affecting account creation, password resets, and session management processes. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and confidentiality of user authentication data, potentially enabling unauthorized access to sensitive network storage resources.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-2729 should prioritize immediate upgrade to DSM version 7.2-64561 or later, which contains the patched random number generation algorithms. Organizations should also implement additional security controls such as multi-factor authentication, account lockout policies, and regular monitoring of authentication logs for suspicious activities. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1110.003 for credential stuffing and T1566.002 for phishing attacks, as compromised credentials can be used to gain unauthorized access to network resources. Security teams should conduct thorough assessments of their DSM deployments to identify all affected systems and ensure proper patch management procedures are in place to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in the future. The remediation process should include verification that all user accounts have been properly secured and that no compromised sessions remain active within the system.