CVE-2023-28461
About
Array Networks Array AG Series and vxAG (9.4.0.481 and earlier) allow remote code execution. An attacker can browse the filesystem on the SSL VPN gateway using a flags attribute in an HTTP header without authentication. The product could then be exploited through a vulnerable URL. The 2023-03-09 vendor advisory stated "a new Array AG release with the fix will be available soon."
Rainforest analyst review
The flaw is in the SSL VPN gateway of Array Networks AG Series and vxAG appliances. Using a flags attribute in an HTTP header, an unauthenticated attacker can browse the appliance's filesystem and, through a vulnerable URL, reach code execution on the gateway. There is no authentication step, so simply being able to send HTTP requests to the device is sufficient to read files and ultimately run code on it.
SSL VPN gateways sit at the network perimeter by design, terminating remote access and holding session material and credentials for the users behind them, which makes them a recurring target for both ransomware crews and espionage actors who want a quiet foothold at the edge. That placement is the whole risk here: compromise of the gateway is compromise of the entry point into the internal network. Upgrade to firmware later than 9.4.0.481 once available, restrict management and, where feasible, VPN exposure to trusted sources, and because these devices are attractive persistence points, inspect the appliance for unexpected files and modified configuration and rotate VPN and administrative credentials.
References
Related CVEs
Frequently asked questions
What is CVE-2023-28461?
Array Networks Array AG Series and vxAG (9.4.0.481 and earlier) allow remote code execution. An attacker can browse the filesystem on the SSL VPN gateway using a flags attribute in an HTTP header without authentication. The product could then be exploited through a vulnerable URL. The 2023-03-09 vendor advisory stated "a new Array AG release with the fix will be available soon."
How severe is CVE-2023-28461?
CVE-2023-28461 carries a CVSS 3.1 base score of 9.8, rated critical. On the Rainforest Risk Index — which weighs the severity alongside how easy the flaw is to reach and how broad its impact is — it scores 99 out of 100, in the critical band.
How is CVE-2023-28461 exploited?
According to the CVSS vector (CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H): attack vector Network, attack complexity Low, privileges required None, user interaction None. Impact on confidentiality High, integrity High and availability High.
Which products are affected by CVE-2023-28461?
Public advisories list the following as affected: ag1000, ag1000t, ag1000v5, ag1100v5, ag1150, ag1200, +8. Check the references on this page for the exact versions each vendor confirms.
How do I fix CVE-2023-28461?
Apply the fix the vendor published — the references on this page link to the primary advisories and patches. When patching can't happen right away, reduce the exposure of the affected component and watch it for exploitation attempts. Rainforest customers see this vulnerability correlated to their own assets and prioritized by real exposure, not by score alone.
Empower Your Security Strategy with Rainforest
Discover vulnerabilities early, prioritize critical threats, and protect what truly matters. Rainforest streamlines your security operations, saving you time and reducing costs, so you can focus on what drives your business forward.