External risk intelligence

WS_FTP Server Remote Command Execution Vulnerability.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2023-40044

A .NET deserialization vulnerability in WS_FTP Server's Ad Hoc Transfer module allows a pre-authenticated attacker to execute commands on the operating system. This affects the integrity of affected systems and poses a business risk of unauthorized access and data compromise.

5Halo Surface Signal

Deserialization

Progress Ws Ftp Server

before 8.7.48.8 to before 8.8.2

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2023-40044

WS_FTP Server is a managed file transfer solution designed to be internet-facing for external data exchange. The Ad Hoc Transfer module is a public-facing component intended for external users to upload and download files, making it a primary edge service that is intentionally exposed to the internet in standard deployments.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

WS_FTP Server contains a pre-authenticated .NET deserialization vulnerability within its Ad Hoc Transfer module. This flaw allows an attacker to execute arbitrary commands on the server's operating system. This could lead to compromised data and unauthorized system access, posing a significant business risk.

  • Vulnerable WS_FTP Server Ad Hoc Transfer module
  • .NET deserialization flaw
  • Remote command execution and system compromise

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

An attacker could exploit a vulnerability in the WS_FTP Server's Ad Hoc Transfer module. This module is exposed externally, allowing an attacker to trigger remote command execution. The attacker gains control over the underlying WS_FTP Server operating system, potentially impacting data and business operations.

  • External exposure of Ad Hoc Transfer module.
  • Attacker achieves remote command execution.
  • System control and potential data impact.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

A pre-authenticated attacker with a low skill level could exploit a .NET deserialization vulnerability in the Ad Hoc Transfer module of WS_FTP Server. This vulnerability allows for remote command execution on the operating system, potentially leading to significant data compromise and system disruption. Organizations should treat this as an urgent matter due to the high potential for damage and known exploitation.

  • Low skill attacker can exploit.
  • Requires unauthenticated network access.
  • High business risk and urgency.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

The organization should address a critical vulnerability impacting WS_FTP Server. This issue enables a pre-authenticated attacker to execute remote commands on the server's operating system through the Ad Hoc Transfer module. Addressing this vulnerability is crucial to prevent unauthorized system access and potential data compromise.

  • Identify WS_FTP Server instances.
  • Isolate affected systems or restrict access.
  • Apply vendor patches and validate.
  • Monitor for suspicious activity.

Frequently asked questions

What is WS_FTP Server and its primary function in secure file exchange?

WS_FTP Server is a managed file transfer solution developed by Progress Software. It is utilized by organizations to securely exchange files with external partners and customers, typically over the internet, ensuring data integrity and confidentiality during transmission.

What type of weakness does CVE-2023-40044 represent and how does it occur?

CVE-2023-40044 is classified as a .NET deserialization vulnerability (CWE-502). This weakness arises when an application incorrectly processes serialized data, enabling an attacker to inject malicious code or commands, thereby compromising the system.

What are the conditions for an attacker to exploit the CVE-2023-40044 vulnerability?

An attacker does not require prior authentication to exploit this vulnerability. They only need the ability to reach the vulnerable Ad Hoc Transfer module within WS_FTP Server, which is externally exposed.

How does the Halo Surface Signal assess the relevance of CVE-2023-40044?

Halo assesses CVE-2023-40044 as 'Very likely' to be relevant due to WS_FTP Server's role as an internet-facing managed file transfer solution. The Ad Hoc Transfer module, a public-facing component for external file exchange, is intentionally exposed, making it a critical edge service.

What steps should be taken to address the WS_FTP Server vulnerability?

Organizations should identify all WS_FTP Server instances, isolate affected systems or restrict access, and promptly apply vendor-provided patches. Post-patching, it is essential to validate the implementation and continuously monitor for any suspicious activity to ensure the vulnerability is fully mitigated.

References