CVE-2017-12213 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2017-12213, a vulnerability in Cisco Catalyst 4000 Series Switches allowing unauthorized access to the default VLAN. Find mitigation steps and long-term security practices.
Cisco Catalyst 4000 Series Switches are affected by a vulnerability in the dynamic access control list (ACL) feature of Cisco IOS XE Software. This weakness could be exploited by an unauthorized attacker in close proximity, potentially causing the dynamic ACL assignment to fail and leaving the port open for malicious activities.
Understanding CVE-2017-12213
This CVE identifies a security flaw in Cisco Catalyst 4000 Series Switches that could allow attackers to bypass 802.1x authentication and transmit traffic to the default VLAN of the affected switch port.
What is CVE-2017-12213?
The vulnerability arises from an error condition during the reassignment of the auth-default-ACL dynamic ACL to a switch port after a failed 802.1x authentication. If successfully exploited, an attacker in physical proximity could keep the affected port open, enabling unauthorized traffic transmission.
The Impact of CVE-2017-12213
- Unauthorized attackers in close physical proximity could bypass 802.1x authentication and send traffic to the default VLAN of the affected switch port.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-12213
Cisco Catalyst 4000 Series Switches are susceptible to the following:
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows unauthorized individuals to exploit a weakness in the dynamic ACL feature, leading to open ports and potential unauthorized traffic transmission.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Cisco Catalyst 4000 Series Switches
- Versions: Cisco Catalyst 4000 Series Switches
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attackers exploit an error condition post-failed 802.1x authentication to keep the port open, enabling traffic to the default VLAN.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2017-12213, consider the following:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches and updates provided by Cisco to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential unauthorized access.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor network traffic for any unusual or unauthorized activities.
- Conduct security awareness training to educate users on best practices for network security.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories from Cisco and promptly apply recommended patches to secure the network.