CVE-2023-27351 Scanner

PaperCut NG is a widely used print management solution utilized by educational institutions, businesses, and government organizations to manage and control printing resources effectively. Developed by PaperCut Software International, it provides features for print authentication, accounting, and secure print release. The software is designed to minimize waste, track printer usage, and enhance security in multi-user network environments. PaperCut NG is primarily used by IT administrators to streamline print services and enforce printing policies. Its advanced functionalities make it an essential tool for maintaining efficient and cost-effective printing systems. Despite its robust capabilities, it must be regularly updated to prevent potential vulnerabilities.

The vulnerability in question allows for unauthorized admin access in PaperCut NG, enabling remote attackers to bypass authentication procedures. This flaw exists in the SecurityRequestFilter class due to an improper implementation of the authentication algorithm. The absence of required authentication facilitates exploitation without needing any user credentials. It is classified as a high-severity issue due to its ability to grant unauthorized system access. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability can execute actions with admin privileges, posing a significant security risk. The vulnerability has been cataloged with the CVE identifier CVE-2023-27351.

The technical details of this vulnerability involve the exploitation of an improperly implemented authentication algorithm within the SecurityRequestFilter class of PaperCut NG. By manipulating specific API endpoints, such as user creation and access endpoints, attackers can create or access user accounts without authorization. These endpoints are typically protected by authentication mechanisms that fail to function correctly due to the flaw. Successfully bypassing these mechanisms provides attackers access to sensitive functionalities within the application. This issue highlights the critical need for secure coding practices and thorough security testing during software development.

Exploiting this vulnerability can lead to severe consequences, including the compromise of sensitive information and the execution of arbitrary commands with administrative privileges. Attackers may gain access to user data, modify system settings, and disrupt operations, leading to data breaches and potential financial loss. The ability to create accounts and execute functions with admin privileges further exacerbates the risk. Organizations using affected versions may face reputational damage and a loss of trust from customers and stakeholders if the vulnerability is exploited. Immediate remediation measures are essential to mitigate these potential effects.

REFERENCES

• https://www.papercut.com/kb/Main/PO-1216-and-PO-1219
• https://www.zerodayinitiative.com/advisories/ZDI-23-232/
• https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2023-27351