CVE-2023-35178 in LaserJet Pro
Summary
by MITRE • 06/30/2023
Certain HP LaserJet Pro print products are potentially vulnerable to Buffer Overflow when performing a GET request to scan jobs.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/22/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-35178 affects specific HP LaserJet Pro printer models and represents a critical buffer overflow condition that occurs during HTTP GET request processing for scan job operations. This flaw exists within the web interface or embedded web server component of affected devices, where insufficient input validation allows maliciously crafted requests to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The buffer overflow vulnerability stems from improper handling of user-supplied data in the scan job request parsing mechanism, creating potential execution paths for arbitrary code injection.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the printer's web server component receiving GET requests containing scan job parameters that are processed without adequate bounds checking. When the system attempts to store or process these parameters in fixed-size buffers, the excessive input causes memory corruption that can be exploited by attackers. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and may also align with CWE-787 for out-of-bounds write operations. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it involves the printer's network interface, making exploitation possible from remote locations without physical access to the device.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to enterprise environments where HP LaserJet Pro printers are deployed. Attackers could leverage this buffer overflow to execute arbitrary code on affected devices, potentially gaining full administrative control over the printer's operating system. The implications extend beyond simple device compromise, as these printers often serve as entry points for broader network infiltration, particularly in environments where print servers are used to manage multiple devices. The vulnerability can be exploited to escalate privileges, install persistent backdoors, or redirect print jobs to malicious destinations. Additionally, since many organizations use these printers in sensitive environments such as healthcare or financial institutions, the potential for data exfiltration or system disruption is substantial.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigation strategies including firmware updates from HP to address the buffer overflow condition, network segmentation to isolate printer devices from critical systems, and the deployment of network monitoring tools to detect anomalous GET request patterns. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1059 for command and control communication and T1071 for application layer protocol usage, highlighting the potential for lateral movement and persistent access once initial compromise occurs. Network administrators should also consider disabling unnecessary web services on printer devices and implementing strict access controls to limit who can interact with the printer's web interface. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar issues in other networked devices, as this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation in embedded systems and network appliances.