Dell Command Update (DCU): Improper Link Resolution Before File Access
CVE-2023-28065 is a high-severity improper link resolution before file access vulnerability in Dell Command Update (DCU) from Dell, with a CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.3 out of 10. It can be exploited with local access to the system by an attacker with a low-privileged account, but only if a user takes part, for example by opening a link or file. Affected Dell Command Update (DCU) versions: 4.8.0 and prior. The record does not name a fixed version, so check the vendor advisory. There is no confirmed exploitation so far. EPSS estimates a 0.19% chance of exploitation within 30 days, which is low compared with other CVEs.
High severity with no evidence of exploitation so far.
What to do
- Update Alienware Update to 4.9.0 or a later version.
- Update Command Update to 4.9.0 or a later version.
- Update Update to 4.9.0 or a later version.
- Read the advisory on dell.com for workarounds and exact fixed builds.
- Because the attack needs a user to take part, warn users about unexpected links and files related to this product until it is patched.
Affected products and versions
| Vendor | Product | Affected versions | Fixed in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dell | Dell Command Update (DCU) | 4.8.0 and prior | Not stated |
| Dell | Alienware Update | before 4.9.0 | 4.9.0 |
| Dell | Command Update | before 4.9.0 | 4.9.0 |
| Dell | Update | before 4.9.0 | 4.9.0 |
Version data comes from the organisation that assigned the CVE. Confirm against the vendor advisory before deciding you are unaffected.
How the severity score breaks down
- Attack vector
- LocalThe attacker needs local access or must trick a user into running something.
- Attack complexity
- LowNo special conditions are needed; the attack works reliably.
- Privileges required
- LowA basic user account is enough.
- User interaction
- RequiredA user must take an action such as opening a file or link.
- Scope
- UnchangedImpact stays within the vulnerable component.
- Confidentiality
- HighAll data handled by the component can be read.
- Integrity
- HighData or code can be modified at will.
- Availability
- HighThe component can be taken down completely.
Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H. Scored by NVD.
| Scoring system | Score | Severity | Scored by |
|---|---|---|---|
| CVSS 3.1 | 6.7 | Medium | CNA (emc.com) |
| CVSS 3.1 | 7.3 | High | NVD |
Official description
Dell Command | Update, Dell Update, and Alienware Update versions 4.8.0 and prior contain an Insecure Operation on Windows Junction / Mount Point vulnerability. A local malicious user could potentially exploit this vulnerability leading to privilege escalation.
Source: the CVE record as published by its numbering authority, via NVD and CVE.org.
The underlying weakness: Improper Link Resolution Before File Access
The product attempts to access a file based on the filename, but it does not properly prevent that filename from identifying a link or shortcut that resolves to an unintended resource.
How developers prevent this class of flaw
- Follow the principle of least privilege when assigning access rights to entities in a software system. Denying access to a file can prevent an attacker from replacing that file with a link to a sensitive file. Ensure good compartmentalization in the system to provide protected areas that can be trusted.
More Improper Link Resolution Before File Access vulnerabilities (CWE-59)
Timeline
- CVE record published.
- CISA published its SSVC assessment (exploitation: none, automatable: no, technical impact: total).
- Record last changed materially (score, affected products, status or references).
References
Other vulnerabilities in Dell Command Update (DCU)
- 8.8 High severity
- 7.8 High severity
- 7.3 High severity
- 7.3 High severity
- 7.8 High severity
- 7.8 High severity
Recent Improper Link Resolution Before File Access vulnerabilities
- 7.1 High severity
- 7.8 High severity
- 8.8 High severity
- 7.8 High severity
- 7.1 High severity
- 7.1 High severity
Spotted an error? Tell us.