CVE-2023-3252 in Nessus
Summary
by MITRE • 08/29/2023
An arbitrary file write vulnerability exists where an authenticated, remote attacker with administrator privileges could alter logging variables to overwrite arbitrary files on the remote host with log data, which could lead to a denial of service condition.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/22/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-3252 represents a critical arbitrary file write flaw that emerges from improper handling of logging configurations within a networked application system. This weakness specifically manifests when an authenticated attacker with administrative privileges manipulates logging variables to redirect log output to arbitrary file paths on the target system. The flaw resides in the application's insufficient validation of user-supplied input used in configuring logging mechanisms, creating a path traversal condition that allows malicious file overwrite operations. The vulnerability operates at the intersection of configuration management and file system access controls, where legitimate administrative functions become weaponized through crafted input parameters.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization and validation processes within the logging subsystem. When administrators configure logging parameters through web interfaces or configuration files, the application fails to properly validate the destination paths specified by these variables. This validation gap enables an attacker to inject malicious path references that bypass normal file system security boundaries. The flaw aligns with CWE-22, which describes path traversal vulnerabilities, and CWE-73, which covers external control of file name or path. The vulnerability's exploitation requires authentication and administrative privileges, indicating that it operates within the context of a compromised administrative account rather than a general user access point.
Operational impact of CVE-2023-3252 extends beyond simple file overwrite capabilities to encompass potential system compromise and service disruption. An attacker leveraging this vulnerability can overwrite critical system files, configuration files, or even executable components, potentially leading to complete system compromise or denial of service conditions. The ability to overwrite arbitrary files with log data creates opportunities for persistent backdoor installation, where attacker-controlled content is written to system locations that are regularly accessed or monitored. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and availability of the target system, as it allows for unauthorized modification of system resources that are typically protected from user modification. The threat model associated with this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078, which covers valid accounts usage, and T1499, which addresses endpoint denial of service.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-3252 must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements to prevent similar vulnerabilities. Organizations should implement strict input validation and sanitization for all logging configuration parameters, ensuring that path inputs are properly normalized and restricted to predefined safe directories. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by limiting administrative access to logging configurations and implementing mandatory access controls for critical system files. Regular security assessments should include testing for path traversal vulnerabilities in configuration management interfaces, while application code reviews must verify proper input validation for file system operations. Additionally, implementing file integrity monitoring solutions and regular system audits can help detect unauthorized file modifications that may result from exploitation of this vulnerability. The remediation process should include immediate patch deployment when vendor fixes become available, along with network segmentation to limit the potential impact of compromised administrative accounts.