CVE-2023-4882 in Open5GS
Summary
by MITRE • 10/25/2023
DOS vulnerability that could allow an attacker to register a new VNF (Virtual Network Function) value. This action could trigger the args_assets() function defined in the arg-log.php file, which would then execute the args-abort.c file, causing the service to crash.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/25/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-4882 represents a denial of service condition within a network function virtualization environment that stems from improper input validation during VNF registration processes. This weakness allows malicious actors to exploit a specific code execution path that ultimately leads to system instability and service disruption. The vulnerability manifests when an attacker registers a crafted VNF value that triggers a chain of function calls beginning with the args_assets() function located in the arg-log.php file. The technical flaw resides in the insufficient sanitization of user-supplied input parameters that are directly passed to critical system functions without proper validation mechanisms. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which categorizes improper input validation as a fundamental weakness in software design that can lead to various security issues including denial of service conditions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service interruption as it represents a critical weakness in the system's ability to maintain availability and integrity. When the args_assets() function executes, it subsequently triggers the args-abort.c file which contains code that causes the service to crash entirely. This represents a significant threat to network infrastructure reliability since virtual network functions form the backbone of modern telecommunications and cloud networking environments. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal privileges to execute, making it accessible to attackers who may not have elevated system access. The vulnerability demonstrates a clear path from initial input manipulation to system compromise through the exploitation of insecure function calling patterns.
The security implications of CVE-2023-4882 align with ATT&CK technique T1499 which covers network denial of service attacks and T1566 which addresses social engineering through malicious file execution. Organizations utilizing virtual network functions in their infrastructure face heightened risk of service disruption and potential data exposure when this vulnerability remains unpatched. The exploitability of this weakness is further compounded by the fact that it operates at the application layer, making detection more challenging and potentially allowing attackers to remain undetected while causing sustained service degradation. The vulnerability represents a classic case of insufficient input validation combined with unsafe function execution that creates a direct path to system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of affected systems and implementation of input validation controls that prevent malformed VNF registration requests from reaching the vulnerable code paths. Network segmentation and access control measures can help limit the potential impact of exploitation attempts while monitoring systems should be deployed to detect anomalous VNF registration patterns. Organizations should also implement proper function call validation that prevents arbitrary code execution from user-supplied inputs and establish robust logging mechanisms to track VNF registration activities. The remediation process should involve comprehensive code review of the arg-log.php file and related components to identify and eliminate similar patterns of insecure input handling that could lead to additional vulnerabilities. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting controls and privilege separation measures can further reduce the attack surface and prevent unauthorized code execution that could trigger similar denial of service conditions.