CVE-2023-30804 is an authenticated file disclosure vulnerability affecting Sangfor Net-Gen Application Firewall version 8.0.17. The vulnerability resides in the svpn_html/loadfile.php endpoint, which improperly restricts access controls, allowing an attacker with valid credentials to read arbitrary system files. This exposure can lead to leakage of sensitive configuration files, credentials, or other critical data stored on the firewall system. Although direct exploitation requires authentication, when combined with CVE-2023-30803, which presumably allows unauthenticated access, an attacker can bypass authentication requirements and remotely disclose files without credentials. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-200 (Exposure of Sensitive Information to an Unauthorized Actor) and has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 4.9, indicating medium severity. The attack vector is network-based with low attack complexity, requiring high privileges but no user interaction. The flaw impacts confidentiality but does not affect integrity or availability. No patches are currently linked, and no active exploitation has been reported, but the risk remains significant due to the potential for sensitive data leakage and the possibility of chaining with other vulnerabilities.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information such as firewall configurations, credentials, or internal network details. Such data exposure can facilitate further attacks, including lateral movement, privilege escalation, or targeted intrusions. Organizations in sectors like finance, government, telecommunications, and critical infrastructure that rely on Sangfor Net-Gen Application Firewall for perimeter defense may face increased risk of data breaches. The ability to combine this vulnerability with CVE-2023-30803 to achieve unauthenticated access raises the threat level, potentially allowing external attackers to bypass authentication controls. This could undermine trust in network security controls and lead to compliance issues under GDPR if personal or sensitive data is exposed. Although no active exploitation is reported, the vulnerability's presence in a widely used firewall product means attackers may develop exploits, increasing risk over time.

1. Monitor Sangfor’s official channels for patches addressing CVE-2023-30804 and CVE-2023-30803 and apply updates promptly once available. 2. Restrict access to the management interfaces and the svpn_html/loadfile.php endpoint using network segmentation, firewall rules, or VPN access controls to limit exposure to trusted administrators only. 3. Implement strong authentication mechanisms and enforce least privilege principles to reduce the risk of credential compromise. 4. Conduct regular audits and monitoring of firewall logs for unusual file access patterns or authentication anomalies that may indicate exploitation attempts. 5. Employ web application firewalls or intrusion detection systems to detect and block suspicious requests targeting the vulnerable endpoint. 6. Consider temporary compensating controls such as disabling or restricting the vulnerable endpoint if feasible until patches are applied. 7. Educate security teams about the potential for chained exploitation with CVE-2023-30803 to ensure comprehensive defensive measures.