CVE-2023-48788: Fortinet FortiClientEMS SQLi Vulnerability

CVE-2023-48788 Overview

A improper neutralization of special elements used in an sql command ('sql injection') in Fortinet FortiClientEMS version 7.2.0 through 7.2.2, FortiClientEMS 7.0.1 through 7.0.10 allows attacker to execute unauthorized code or commands via specially crafted packets.

Critical Impact
SQL injection vulnerability in Fortinet FortiClientEMS allows unauthorized code execution.

Affected Products

Fortinet FortiClientEMS 7.2.0 to 7.2.2
Fortinet FortiClientEMS 7.0.1 to 7.0.10
Fortinet FortiClient Enterprise Management Server

Discovery Timeline

Not Available - Vulnerability discovered by Not Available
Not Available - Responsible disclosure to fortinet
Not Available - CVE CVE-2023-48788 assigned
Not Available - fortinet releases security patch
2024-03-12 - CVE CVE-2023-48788 published to NVD
2025-10-24 - Last updated in NVD database

Technical Details for CVE-2023-48788

Vulnerability Analysis

The vulnerability exists due to improper input sanitization in the SQL commands processed by FortiClientEMS. An attacker can exploit this to execute arbitrary SQL commands via specially crafted packets, leading to unauthorized code execution.

Root Cause

The root cause of this vulnerability is the failure to neutralize special characters in SQL queries, allowing for SQL injection.

Attack Vector

The attack can be carried out remotely over the network by sending maliciously crafted packets to the vulnerable endpoint.

sql

-- Example exploitation code (sanitized)
SELECT * FROM users WHERE username = 'admin' OR '1'='1';

Detection Methods for CVE-2023-48788

Indicators of Compromise

Unusual database access patterns
Execution of unauthorized SQL commands
Unexpected user account changes

Detection Strategies

Implement continuous monitoring of SQL query logs for anomalies and known SQL injection patterns.

Monitoring Recommendations

Enable SQL query logging
Use automated tools to detect injection patterns
Monitor administrative access to the database

How to Mitigate CVE-2023-48788

Immediate Actions Required

Apply the security patch provided by Fortinet immediately.
Review access controls and permissions to limit database access.
Implement input validation on all user input fields.

Patch Information

Refer to Fortinet's advisory for patch details and implementation instructions.

Workarounds

Employ web application firewalls (WAF) to filter out malicious queries and apply input validation and sanitization routines.

bash

# Configuration example
iptables -A INPUT -p tcp --dport 80 -j DROP