CVE-2017-12211 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Discover the critical vulnerability in Cisco IOS and Cisco IOS XE Software's IPv6 SNMP code allowing remote attackers to induce high CPU usage or device reload. Learn about affected versions and mitigation steps.
Cisco IOS and Cisco IOS XE Software contain a vulnerability in their IPv6 Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) code, allowing a remote attacker with authentication to trigger high CPU usage or device reload. The flaw arises from corruption in the IPv6 sub block, enabling exploitation by polling the device's IPv6 details. This weakness affects the Denali-16.3.1 release and is linked to Cisco Bug IDs CSCvb14640.
Understanding CVE-2017-12211
This CVE entry highlights a critical vulnerability in Cisco IOS and Cisco IOS XE Software related to SNMP functionality.
What is CVE-2017-12211?
The vulnerability in Cisco IOS and Cisco IOS XE Software's IPv6 SNMP code permits an authenticated remote attacker to induce high CPU utilization or device reload by exploiting IPv6 sub block corruption.
The Impact of CVE-2017-12211
The vulnerability could lead to severe consequences:
- Remote attackers with authentication can cause high CPU usage or device reload.
- Exploitation involves polling the device's IPv6 information.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-12211
This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
- Weakness in IPv6 SNMP code of Cisco IOS and Cisco IOS XE Software
- Allows remote attackers with authentication to trigger high CPU usage or device reload
Affected Systems and Versions
- Products: Cisco IOS and Cisco IOS XE
- Vulnerable Version: Denali-16.3.1
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attackers exploit IPv6 sub block corruption by polling device's IPv6 details
Mitigation and Prevention
Understanding how to mitigate and prevent this vulnerability is crucial.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor-provided patches and updates promptly
- Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity
- Restrict SNMP access to trusted hosts
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch all network devices
- Implement strong authentication mechanisms
- Conduct security audits and assessments periodically
Patching and Updates
- Refer to Cisco's security advisory for specific patch details and instructions