CVE-2023-46748: Authenticated SQL Injection Vulnerability in BIG-IP Configuration Utility

Introduction:
There has been a recent discovery of a security vulnerability in the BIG-IP Configuration utility, specifically an authenticated SQL injection issue. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can execute arbitrary system commands on affected systems. It is crucial for users to be aware of this security flaw and implement proper measures to prevent unauthorized access and ensure system security.

Affected versions:
This vulnerability (CVE-2023-46748) impacts the BIG-IP Configuration utility. If you are using an affected version, it is essential to take immediate action to mitigate the vulnerability. Note that software versions that have reached End of Technical Support (EoTS) are not evaluated.

Exploit details

An authenticated SQL injection vulnerability exists in the BIG-IP Configuration utility, which may allow an attacker with network access to the Configuration utility through the BIG-IP management port and/or self IP addresses to execute arbitrary system commands. An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by injecting specially crafted SQL queries into the application via vulnerable parameters.

Code snippet

The following code snippet demonstrates a hypothetical vulnerable SQL query in the BIG-IP Configuration utility:

SELECT * FROM users WHERE username='USERNAME' AND password='PASSWORD';

In this example, an attacker can exploit the vulnerability by providing a specially crafted value for the USERNAME parameter, such as:

' OR '1'='1

By doing so, the attacker can manipulate the SQL query to bypass authentication and gain unauthorized access to the system.

Mitigation steps

To mitigate this vulnerability, it is crucial to follow best practices for securing BIG-IP systems, such as:

1. Update your BIG-IP software to the latest version to ensure you have the most recent security patches.

For more detailed information on this vulnerability, please consult the following official sources

- F5 Security Advisory: CVE-2023-46748
- National Vulnerability Database (NIST) Entry: CVE-2023-46748

Conclusion

It is essential to prioritize the security of your BIG-IP software and take immediate steps to address the CVE-2023-46748 vulnerability. By keeping your BIG-IP systems updated and following the recommended best practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of a successful exploit and ensure the safety of your network and data.

Note: This post is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Always consult original sources and applicable laws and regulations to understand the scope and severity of any vulnerability, and consult with a qualified security professional.

Timeline

Published on: 10/26/2023 21:15:08 UTC
Last modified on: 11/16/2023 02:15:26 UTC