CVE-2023-27350

PaperCut MF and PaperCut NG print management software contain an improper access control flaw (CWE-284) in the SetupCompleted class that allows an unauthenticated attacker to bypass authentication and reach internal administrative functionality. The flaw is triggered by sending crafted, unauthenticated requests to the PaperCut application's web interface, without requiring valid user credentials. A successful attacker gains the ability to execute code in the context of the SYSTEM account on the PaperCut server, typically a Windows print server, giving full control of that host. Any organization running PaperCut MF or NG is potentially affected, and exposure is highest where the server's web interface is reachable from the internet or by untrusted networks. Exploitation is confirmed in the wild: CISA added the flaw to the KEV on 2023-04-21 with known ransomware use, and EPSS rates exploitation probability at 100% within 30 days.

What to do: Apply the vendor's updates as instructed (this is the required action in CISA KEV) — upgrade PaperCut MF/NG to the patched releases listed in PaperCut's security advisory rather than relying on unpatched installs. Until patched, restrict network access to the PaperCut web/admin interface so it is reachable only from trusted hosts, and check the server for signs of compromise given known ransomware use. Prioritize internet-facing PaperCut servers, which public scans show are exposed in the thousands.