CVE-2023-24491 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2023-24491, a high-impact vulnerability in Citrix Secure Access client for Windows, enabling privilege escalation. Mitigate risk with updates and security measures.
This article provides detailed information about CVE-2023-24491, a vulnerability discovered in the Citrix Secure Access client for Windows.
Understanding CVE-2023-24491
CVE-2023-24491 refers to a vulnerability found in the Citrix Secure Access client for Windows. If exploited, this vulnerability could enable an attacker with access to an endpoint containing the vulnerable client installed under a Standard User Account to escalate their local privileges to that of NT AUTHORITY\SYSTEM.
What is CVE-2023-24491?
The CVE-2023-24491 vulnerability lies in the Citrix Secure Access client for Windows. It poses a threat by allowing an attacker to elevate their local privileges to NT AUTHORITY\SYSTEM when exploiting an endpoint with the vulnerable client installed.
The Impact of CVE-2023-24491
The impact of this vulnerability is considered high, with a CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.8. The attack complexity is low, with a local attack vector. Confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts are all marked as high, highlighting the severity of this vulnerability.
Technical Details of CVE-2023-24491
This section delves into the technical aspects of CVE-2023-24491, including vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in Citrix Secure Access client for Windows can be exploited by an attacker to escalate their local privileges to NT AUTHORITY\SYSTEM, posing a serious security risk.
Affected Systems and Versions
The Citrix Secure Access client for Windows versions prior to 23.5.1.3 are affected by CVE-2023-24491. Users with these versions are at risk of privilege escalation if targeted by an attacker.
Exploitation Mechanism
The exploit for CVE-2023-24491 involves taking advantage of the vulnerability in the Citrix Secure Access client for Windows to elevate privileges locally to NT AUTHORITY\SYSTEM, granting the attacker extensive control.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2023-24491 and mitigate its impact, certain steps can be taken by users and organizations to enhance security.
Immediate Steps to Take
Immediately update the Citrix Secure Access client for Windows to version 23.5.1.3 or higher to patch the vulnerability and prevent potential exploitation by attackers.
Long-Term Security Practices
In the long term, it is advisable to regularly update software and applications to their latest versions, implement strong access control measures, and conduct security audits to proactively identify and address vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Regularly monitor security bulletins and advisories from Citrix to stay informed about patches and updates related to CVE-2023-24491. Promptly apply any security patches released by the vendor to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.
By following these mitigation strategies and maintaining robust security practices, organizations and users can safeguard themselves against the risks associated with CVE-2023-24491.