CVE-2023-32077 in Netmaker
Summary
by MITRE • 08/25/2023
Netmaker makes networks with WireGuard. Prior to versions 0.17.1 and 0.18.6, hardcoded DNS key usage has been found in Netmaker allowing unauth users to interact with DNS API endpoints. The issue is patched in 0.17.1 and fixed in 0.18.6. If users are using 0.17.1, they should run `docker pull gravitl/netmaker:v0.17.1` and `docker-compose up -d`. This will switch them to the patched users. If users are using v0.18.0-0.18.5, they should upgrade to v0.18.6 or later. As a workaround, someone who is using version 0.17.1 can pull the latest docker image of the backend and restart the server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/18/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-32077 affects Netmaker, a network management platform that utilizes WireGuard for creating secure network connections. This security flaw represents a critical authorization bypass issue that allows unauthorized users to interact with DNS API endpoints through the use of hardcoded DNS keys. The vulnerability exists specifically in versions prior to 0.17.1 and 0.18.6, creating a significant risk for organizations relying on Netmaker for network infrastructure management. The presence of hardcoded credentials in the software architecture fundamentally undermines the security model and provides attackers with direct access to DNS resolution services that should remain protected.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of authentication mechanisms within the Netmaker application. When hardcoded DNS keys are embedded within the application code or configuration files, they create persistent access points that remain unchanged regardless of user authentication status. This design flaw falls under CWE-798, which specifically addresses the use of hard-coded credentials in software applications. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can leverage these hardcoded keys to make unauthorized DNS API calls, potentially enabling them to modify DNS records, perform zone transfers, or gain information about network topology and services that are typically restricted to authorized administrators.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access to DNS services. Organizations using affected Netmaker versions face potential compromise of their entire network infrastructure since DNS resolution is fundamental to network operations. Attackers could manipulate DNS records to redirect traffic to malicious endpoints, create denial of service conditions, or establish persistence mechanisms within the network. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which covers application layer protocol: DNS, and T1566, which involves phishing with malicious attachments or links, as compromised DNS records could facilitate further attack vectors. The vulnerability also exposes organizations to potential data exfiltration and reconnaissance activities that could remain undetected for extended periods.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action from affected organizations. The recommended approach involves upgrading to versions 0.17.1 or 0.18.6, which contain the necessary patches to address the hardcoded credential issue. For users operating version 0.17.1, the specific Docker commands provided ensure proper patching of the backend services. Organizations using versions 0.18.0 through 0.18.5 must upgrade to 0.18.6 or later to eliminate the vulnerability. The workaround of pulling the latest Docker image and restarting the server provides a temporary solution for version 0.17.1 users while planning a complete upgrade. Security teams should also conduct thorough audits of their Netmaker implementations to identify any potential exploitation attempts and implement network monitoring to detect unauthorized DNS API access patterns. Additionally, organizations should review their overall credential management practices to prevent similar hardcoded credential vulnerabilities in other systems, as this represents a common security anti-pattern that frequently appears in network infrastructure software deployments.