CVE-2023-29181: Externally-Controlled Format String Vulnerability in Fortinet FortiOS, FortiProxy, and FortiPAM

A critical vulnerability has been discovered in Fortinet FortiOS 7.2. through 7.2.4, 7.. through 7..11, 6.4. through 6.4.12, 6.2. through 6.2.14, 6.. through 6..16, FortiProxy 7.2. through 7.2.4, 7.. through 7..10, 2.. through 2..12, 1.2. through 1.2.13, 1.1. through 1.1.6, 1.. through 1..7, and FortiPAM 1.. through 1..3. This vulnerability, CVE-2023-29181, is caused by the use of an externally-controlled format string.

Exploit Details

An attacker can exploit CVE-2023-29181 by crafting a specific command that contains a format string vulnerability. This command, when executed, allows the attacker to execute unauthorized code or commands on the vulnerable system, potentially leading to further compromise of the affected system or network.

Here's a code snippet demonstrating a potential attack vector

// Bad code: Externally-controlled string passed to printf() function
#include <stdio.h>

int main(int argc, char *argv[]) {
    if (argc != 2) {
        printf("Usage: %s <msg>\n", argv[]);
        return 1;
    }

    // Externally-controlled format string!
    printf(argv[1]);

    return ;
}

In this example, the format string passed to the printf() function is controlled by the user, allowing them to craft a custom command that could lead to unauthorized code execution.

Official Fortinet Security Advisory: [link-to-advisory]

Additionally, the vulnerability is documented in the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) database:

To protect your systems from this vulnerability, operators should perform the following steps

1. Review the official security advisory from Fortinet and identify the specific versions of the software affected.
2. Immediately apply the necessary patches or update to the latest versions available that are unaffected by this vulnerability.
3. Monitor all systems for signs of unauthorized access or code execution and perform a thorough investigation in case any suspicious activities are detected.

Conclusion

CVE-2023-29181 is a critical vulnerability that affects multiple Fortinet products, including FortiOS, FortiProxy, and FortiPAM. Operators should prioritize patching their systems and updating their software to protect themselves from the potential damage this vulnerability can cause.

Timeline

Published on: 02/22/2024 10:15:08 UTC