CVE-2023-4499: HP ThinUpdate - Improper Certificate Validation

A potential security vulnerability has been identified in the HP ThinUpdate utility (also known as HP Recovery Image and Software Download Tool) which may lead to information disclosure. HP is releasing mitigation for the potential vulnerability.

Severity

Medium

HP Reference

HPSBHF03872 Rev. 1

Release date

October 13, 2023

Last updated

October 13, 2023

Category

Potential Security Impact

PC

Relevant Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) List

Reported by Narumi Hirai of LAC Co., Ltd.

List of CVE IDs

CVE ID

CVS 3.0

Vector

CVE-2023-4499

4.8

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

Learn more about CVSS 3.0 base metrics, which range from 0 to 10.

PSR-2023-0089

Resolution

HP ThinUpdate version 2.7.15 has been updated to enforce certificate checking on all file downloads. HP recommends updating to HP ThinUpdate version 2.7.15 or later to mitigate this potential vulnerability.

Use one of the following methods to update HP ThinUpdate utility.

• Method 1: Self-update via the HP ThinUpdate utility.

  When ThinUpdate is executed (opened) it will automatically check for a newer version and request the user to perform an update. HP recommends that customers select Yes to download and install the update.

• Method 2: Manual installation of HP ThinUpdate utility.

  HP has identified affected platforms and corresponding HP ThinUpdate SoftPaqs available for download. See the affected platforms listed below.

Newer versions may become available, and the minimum versions listed below may become obsolete.  If a SoftPaq Link becomes invalid, check the HP Customer Support - Software and Driver Downloads site to obtain the latest update for your product model.

HP recommends keeping your system up to date with the latest firmware and software.

Note:

This bulletin may be updated when new information and/or SoftPaqs are available. Sign up for HP Subscriptions to be notified and receive:

• Product support eAlerts

• Driver updates

• Security Bulletin updates

Softpaqs and affected products

Find the SoftPaq that resolves the vulnerability of your system.

A status is provided if no SoftPaq is listed for a particular product.

• Pending: SoftPaq is in progress.

• Under investigation: System under investigation for impact, or the SoftPaq is under investigation for feasibility/availability.

• Not available: SoftPaq not available due to technical or logistical constraints.

• Check Support Page: The listed SoftPaq has been removed from the download site.

• SoftPaqs with newer versions may be available on the HP Customer Support - Software and Driver Downloads site.

Affected products

Identify the affected products.

Revision history

This document has been revised according to the information below.

List of versions

Version

Description

Date

1

Initial Release

October 13, 2023

Additional information

Follow these links for additional information.

Third-party security patches

Third party security patches that are to be installed on systems running HP software products should be applied in accordance with the customer’s patch management policy.

Support

For issues about implementing the recommendations of this Security Bulletin, visit http://www.hp.com/go/contacthp to learn about your HP support options.

Report

To report a potential security vulnerability with any HP supported product, send email to: [email protected].

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Security bulletin archive

To view released Security Bulletins, visit https://support.hp.com/security-bulletins.

It is strongly recommended that security related information being communicated to HP be encrypted using PGP, especially exploit information.

Download HP’s security-alert PGP key

Legal information

System management and security procedures must be reviewed frequently to maintain system integrity. HP is continually reviewing and enhancing the security features of software products to provide customers with current secure solutions.

HP is broadly distributing this Security Bulletin in order to bring to the attention of users of the affected HP products the important security information contained in this Security Bulletin. HP recommends that all users determine the applicability of this information to their individual situations and take appropriate action. HP does not warrant that this information is necessarily accurate or complete for all user situations and, consequently, HP will not be responsible for any damages resulting from user’s use or disregard of the information provided in this Security Bulletin. To the extent permitted by law, HP disclaims all warranties, either express or implied, including the warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, title and non-infringement.

© Copyright 2023 HP Development Company, L.P.

HP Inc. (HP) shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained herein. The information provided is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. To the extent permitted by law, neither HP nor its affiliates, subcontractors or suppliers will be liable for incidental, special or consequential damages including downtime cost; lost profits; damages relating to the procurement of substitute products or services; or damages for loss of data, or software restoration. The information in this document is subject to change without notice. “HP Inc.,” “HP” and the names of HP products referenced herein are trademarks of HP Inc. or its affiliates in the United States and other countries. Other product and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.