Fortinet has been a leading technological innovator, offering advanced security solutions like its FortiGate Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) to numerous companies across the globe. The FortiGate platform’s robust security features have become a go-to solution for businesses looking to protect their infrastructure against the latest cyber threats. However, recently, cybersecurity researchers have uncovered a FortiGate security vulnerability (CVE-2023-29183) in the FortiGate platform.
This vulnerability could allow an authenticated attacker to trigger malicious JavaScript code execution, and can be exploited by a hacker through specifically crafted guest management settings – thus putting your network at risk.
As a senior IT decision-maker, it is essential to stay on top of the latest security threats and how to avoid them. In this blog post, we’ll explore the FortiGate security advisory (FG-IR-23-106) and how you can protect your network.
Understanding The FortiGate Security Vulnerability
The FortiGate security vulnerability can be exploited by a hacker through its guest management settings, which are accessible by an authenticated HTTP session on the FortiGate interface. The attacker can inject malicious JavaScript code into the guest management page, which will then execute when an authorized user views it.
The exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to significant consequences for your business, and the execution of malicious code can allow an attacker to gain complete control of your network – stealing sensitive data and causing serious financial and reputational damage.
Affected Products
FortiOS version 7.2.0 through 7.2.4
FortiOS version 7.0.0 through 7.0.11
FortiOS version 6.4.0 through 6.4.12
FortiOS version 6.2.0 through 6.2.14
Solutions
Upgrade to FortiOS version 7.4.0 or above
Upgrade to FortiOS version 7.2.5 or above
Upgrade to FortiOS version 7.0.12 or above
Upgrade to FortiOS version 6.4.13 or above
Upgrade to FortiOS version 6.2.15 or above
How To Protect Your Network Against The FortiGate Security Vulnerability
Fortinet has taken steps to remedy the vulnerability, and patches are available on the company’s official website. Besides applying the patch, we recommend taking the following measures:
- Keep your FortiGate platform up to date with the latest security patches and firmware updates.
- Establish a strong login and password policy, ensuring that all users have unique, complex passwords.
- Monitor network traffic regularly, looking out for any suspicious activity that may be caused by the exploitation of the FortiGate security vulnerability.
- Train employees on the importance of cybersecurity and the dangers of clicking on suspicious links.
(check out our Security Awareness Training)
Mitigating The Risk
Ultimately, preventing cyberattacks like the FortiGate security vulnerability requires a combination of tactical measures – like updating software and firewalls, as well as having a strategic approach to security (like our Layered Security Strategy). Having a well-defined incident response plan and process can minimize the impact on your organization, should the worst happen.
As a CIO, CTO, or IT Manager, it is essential to continually stay vigilant against cybersecurity threats. The FortiGate vulnerability poses an immense risk to any business, and it is vital to take steps to mitigate it. Follow the steps outlined in this article, prioritize cybersecurity within your organization, and take a proactive approach to protect your network against future security threats.
If you’re interested in learning more about how to better protect your business from this FortiGate security vulnerability – or other cybersecurity threats – please contact us by calling (502) 240-0404 or emailing info@mirazon.com.