CVE-2017-12232 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2017-12232, a Cisco IOS vulnerability allowing adjacent attackers to force device reboots, causing denial of service (DoS) scenarios. Find mitigation steps and patching details here.
A vulnerability in Cisco IOS versions 15.0 through 15.6 could allow an adjacent attacker to force a device reboot, leading to a denial of service (DoS) situation.
Understanding CVE-2017-12232
This CVE identifies a flaw in the implementation of a protocol in Cisco Integrated Services Routers Generation 2 (ISR G2) Routers running Cisco IOS 15.0 through 15.6.
What is CVE-2017-12232?
The vulnerability stems from an incorrect classification of Ethernet frames, allowing an unauthenticated adjacent attacker to exploit the flaw by sending a specially crafted Ethernet frame to the affected device, potentially causing it to reboot and resulting in a DoS scenario.
The Impact of CVE-2017-12232
The vulnerability could lead to a denial of service (DoS) situation by forcing the affected device to reboot, impacting the availability of services.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-12232
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw in Cisco IOS versions 15.0 through 15.6 allows an adjacent attacker to trigger a device reboot by sending a specially crafted Ethernet frame, causing a DoS situation.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Cisco IOS
- Versions: 15.0 through 15.6
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attacker sends a crafted Ethernet frame to the affected device
- Successful exploitation results in device reboot and DoS scenario
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-12232 is crucial to prevent potential DoS attacks.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor-provided patches and updates promptly
- Implement network segmentation to limit attacker access
- Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch all network devices
- Conduct security assessments and audits to identify vulnerabilities
Patching and Updates
- Cisco has assigned bug IDs CSCvc03809 to address this vulnerability
- Refer to Cisco's security advisory for detailed patching instructions