CVE-2023-53691 is a path traversal vulnerability classified under CWE-24 affecting Hikvision's Comprehensive Security Management Platform (CSMP) iSecure Center. The flaw exists in the file upload functionality accessible via the /center/api/files endpoint, allowing attackers to traverse directories using '../filedir' sequences. This enables unauthorized file uploads outside the intended directory, potentially overwriting critical files or placing malicious payloads on the server. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable without authentication or user interaction, increasing its risk profile. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 8.3 indicates a high-severity issue with network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, and no user interaction needed. The scope is changed (S:C), meaning the vulnerability affects components beyond the initially vulnerable scope, impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability to some extent. Although no public exploits have been confirmed in the wild as of the latest data, the vulnerability was reportedly exploited in 2024 and 2025, indicating active threat actor interest. The lack of available patches at the time of reporting necessitates immediate compensating controls. The vulnerability could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, disrupt services, or gain further access within affected environments, especially critical given Hikvision's widespread use in security and surveillance systems.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2023-53691 is significant due to Hikvision's extensive deployment in security management and surveillance infrastructure. Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized file uploads, enabling attackers to implant malware, disrupt monitoring services, or escalate privileges within the network. This compromises the confidentiality of sensitive surveillance data, the integrity of security configurations, and the availability of critical monitoring systems. Sectors such as government, transportation, energy, and large enterprises relying on Hikvision CSMP iSecure Center for centralized security management are particularly vulnerable. The potential for remote exploitation without authentication increases the risk of widespread attacks, including ransomware or espionage campaigns. Disruption of security monitoring can have cascading effects on physical security and incident response capabilities, elevating the threat to public safety and organizational resilience.

1. Immediately restrict network access to the CSMP iSecure Center management interface, limiting it to trusted internal networks and VPN connections only. 2. Monitor and analyze logs for suspicious file upload attempts or directory traversal patterns targeting /center/api/files. 3. Implement web application firewalls (WAF) with custom rules to detect and block path traversal payloads and unauthorized file uploads. 4. Apply strict input validation and sanitization on file upload parameters to prevent directory traversal sequences. 5. Coordinate with Hikvision for timely patch deployment once available; prioritize testing and applying updates in all affected environments. 6. Conduct thorough security audits of CSMP iSecure Center deployments to identify unauthorized changes or implanted files. 7. Employ network segmentation to isolate security management platforms from general IT infrastructure, reducing lateral movement risk. 8. Educate security teams about this vulnerability to enhance detection and incident response readiness. 9. Consider alternative or additional security management solutions if patching is delayed or unsupported.