CVE-2023-5616: ubuntu linux — Exploit & Fix

Description

In Ubuntu, gnome-control-center did not properly reflect SSH remote login status when the system was configured to use systemd socket activation for openssh-server. This could unknowingly leave the local machine exposed to remote SSH access contrary to expectation of the user.

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CVSS v3.1 Score

4.9

MEDIUM

CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:H/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:L/A:L

Weakness Type (CWE)

CWE-290 CWE-290

Affected Products

Vendor	Product	Versions
gnome	control_center	1.3 — 1.3.36.5-0ubuntu4.1
gnome	control_center	1.41 — 1.41.7-0ubuntu0.22.04.8
gnome	control_center	1.44 — 1.44.0-1ubuntu6.1
gnome	control_center	1.45 — 1.45.0-1ubuntu3.1
canonical	ubuntu_linux	All
canonical	ubuntu_linux	All
canonical	ubuntu_linux	All
canonical	ubuntu_linux	All

References

Advisories & Patches

https://ubuntu.com/security/CVE-2023-5616 https://ubuntu.com/security/notices/USN-6554-1

Exploits

https://bugs.launchpad.net/ubuntu/+source/gnome-control-center/+bug/2039577

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CVE-2023-5616? +

In Ubuntu, gnome-control-center did not properly reflect SSH remote login status when the system was configured to use systemd socket activation for openssh-server. This could unknowingly leave the local machine exposed to remote SSH access contrary to expectation of the user. It has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 4.9 (MEDIUM).

How severe is CVE-2023-5616? +

CVE-2023-5616 has a CVSS v3.1 score of 4.9 out of 10, rated MEDIUM. This is a medium-severity vulnerability that should be remediated as part of regular maintenance.

What products are affected by CVE-2023-5616? +

CVE-2023-5616 affects products from canonical, gnome, specifically: control_center, ubuntu_linux. Check the affected products table above for specific version ranges.

How do I check if I'm vulnerable to CVE-2023-5616? +

You can use Secably's free Website Scanner to check your website for known vulnerabilities. For infrastructure scanning, use the Port Scanner to identify exposed services that may be affected. Check the vendor advisories linked above for specific patch and version information.

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