CVE-2023-3266 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE-2023-3266 was published on August 14, 2023, by trellix. It highlights a critical vulnerability in CyberPower's PowerPanel Enterprise software version v2.6.0 that allows an attacker to bypass authentication checks, potentially granting unauthorized access to the system.

Understanding CVE-2023-3266

This section delves into the details of CVE-2023-3266, shedding light on the vulnerability's nature, impact, affected systems, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-3266?

The vulnerability in CyberPower's PowerPanel Enterprise software v2.6.0 enables attackers to bypass authentication checks if LDAP authentication is selected. This flaw allows unauthenticated attackers to log in as administrators by exploiting a hidden HTML combo box, necessitating knowledge of at least one username on the device for successful exploitation.

The Impact of CVE-2023-3266

The impact of this vulnerability is severe, as it falls under CAPEC-115 Authentication Bypass. With a CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.8 (Critical), the exploit poses high risks to confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-3266

In this section, we will explore the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism associated with CVE-2023-3266.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw lies in an incomplete authentication mechanism that allows attackers to bypass all authentication checks when LDAP authentication is chosen, potentially granting unauthorized access to CyberPower's PowerPanel Enterprise software version v2.6.0.

Affected Systems and Versions

CyberPower's PowerPanel Enterprise software version v2.6.0 is affected by this vulnerability, putting systems leveraging this specific version at risk of unauthorized access and potential compromise.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting this vulnerability requires an unauthenticated attacker to select LDAP authentication from a hidden HTML combo box, knowing at least one username on the device. Any password input by the attacker will authenticate successfully, granting them admin access.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-3266, immediate steps should be taken, complemented by long-term security practices and timely patching and updates to address the vulnerability effectively.

Immediate Steps to Take

Immediate actions should include assessing the impact of the vulnerability on the organization, restricting access to vulnerable systems, monitoring for any unauthorized activities, and implementing temporary workarounds to limit exposure.

Long-Term Security Practices

Establishing robust security protocols, conducting regular security assessments and audits, providing comprehensive cybersecurity training for staff, and staying informed about potential threats are vital for long-term security resilience.

Patching and Updates

CyberPower should release a patch or update to address the vulnerability promptly. Organizations using PowerPanel Enterprise v2.6.0 should apply the patch as soon as it becomes available to secure their systems against potential exploitation.