CVE-2023-47032: Critical Password Vulnerability in NCR Terminal Handler

Overview

The cybersecurity landscape is constantly shifting, with new vulnerabilities surfacing regularly. One such vulnerability, identified as CVE-2023-47032, has been reported in the NCR Terminal Handler version 1.5.1, a widely used terminal management system. This vulnerability can allow a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code via a specially crafted script to the UserService SOAP API function. Given the high CVSS severity score of 9.8, it’s crucial for organizations using this system to address this issue promptly to avoid potential system compromise or data leakage.

Vulnerability Summary

CVE ID: CVE-2023-47032
Severity: Critical (CVSS: 9.8)
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: None
Impact: System compromise and potential data leakage

Affected Products

Product | Affected Versions

NCR Terminal Handler | v1.5.1

How the Exploit Works

This vulnerability exists due to the insecure handling of passwords in the UserService SOAP API function. An attacker can craft a malicious script and send it to the vulnerable API endpoint. As the system lacks proper input validation, it processes the malicious script, leading to arbitrary code execution. The attacker can then potentially gain control over the system and may proceed to steal sensitive data or cause other types of harm.

Conceptual Example Code

Here is a conceptual example of how an attacker might exploit the vulnerability. This example represents an HTTP request, where the attacker sends a specially crafted script in the request body:

POST /UserService/ SOAP API HTTP/1.1
Host: target.example.com
Content-Type: text/xml
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<soapenv:Envelope xmlns:soapenv="http://schemas.xmlsoap.org/soap/envelope/">
<soapenv:Body>
<m:UserService>
<m:script>malicious_script_here</m:script>
</m:UserService>
</soapenv:Body>
</soapenv:Envelope>

In the above example, `malicious_script_here` would be replaced with the actual malicious script crafted by the attacker. The payload would exploit the password vulnerability in the UserService SOAP API function, leading to arbitrary code execution.

Mitigation and Remediation

Users of the NCR Terminal Handler v1.5.1 are advised to apply the vendor-supplied patch as soon as possible to mitigate this high-risk vulnerability. If the patch cannot be applied immediately, using a Web Application Firewall (WAF) or Intrusion Detection System (IDS) can serve as a temporary mitigation measure, although this should not replace patching the system. Regularly updating and patching systems is a fundamental aspect of maintaining a secure IT environment.