CVE-2023-36554 in FortiManager
Summary
by MITRE • 03/12/2024
A improper access control in Fortinet FortiManager version 7.4.0, version 7.2.0 through 7.2.3, version 7.0.0 through 7.0.10, version 6.4.0 through 6.4.13, 6.2 all versions allows attacker to execute unauthorized code or commands via specially crafted HTTP requests.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/09/2024
This vulnerability represents a critical improper access control flaw in Fortinet FortiManager appliances that affects multiple version ranges including 7.4.0, 7.2.0 through 7.2.3, 7.0.0 through 7.0.10, and 6.4.0 through 6.4.13 along with all 6.2 versions. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of HTTP request parameters that allows authenticated attackers to craft malicious requests capable of executing arbitrary code or commands on the target system. This weakness falls under CWE-284 which specifically addresses improper access control mechanisms in software systems. The vulnerability exists within the web interface handling logic where input validation is inadequate, permitting attackers to bypass authentication and authorization checks that should normally prevent command execution.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves sending specially crafted HTTP requests that manipulate the application's parameter handling to achieve unauthorized code execution. Attackers can leverage this flaw to gain elevated privileges and execute malicious commands on the FortiManager appliance, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it allows for arbitrary command injection, which can result in data exfiltration, system modification, or further lateral movement within the network environment. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and script injection, representing a significant threat to network security infrastructure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as FortiManager appliances serve as central management points for Fortinet security devices, making them prime targets for attackers seeking to compromise entire network security ecosystems. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain control over all managed Fortinet devices, potentially affecting firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, and other security appliances configured through the compromised FortiManager. Organizations using affected versions face risks of unauthorized access to security policies, configuration changes, and potential data breaches. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple version lines indicates a fundamental flaw in the application's input validation and access control implementation that requires immediate remediation.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate deployment of Fortinet's official security patches and updates for all affected versions. Network segmentation and access control restrictions should be implemented to limit exposure of FortiManager appliances to untrusted networks. Organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of their FortiManager implementations and monitor for suspicious activities or unauthorized access attempts. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and vulnerability scanning should be performed to identify and remediate similar access control weaknesses in other network infrastructure components. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and access control implementation in security management systems, as highlighted by both CWE and ATT&CK frameworks for identifying and addressing such security flaws.