CVE-2017-12239 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A security flaw in the motherboard console ports of line cards used in Cisco ASR 1000 Series Aggregation Services Routers and Cisco cBR-8 Converged Broadband Routers could potentially provide unauthorized access to the operating system of affected devices.

Understanding CVE-2017-12239

This CVE involves a vulnerability in specific Cisco routers that could be exploited by a physical attacker to gain complete access to the device's operating system.

What is CVE-2017-12239?

The vulnerability arises from the presence of an engineering console port on the motherboard of affected line cards, allowing unauthorized access to the operating system when exploited by a physical attacker.

The Impact of CVE-2017-12239

Unauthorized access to the operating system of affected devices
Potential for complete control over the device by an attacker

Technical Details of CVE-2017-12239

This section provides more in-depth technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows physical attackers to connect to the console port on the line card, leading to unauthorized access to the operating system.

Affected Systems and Versions

Cisco ASR 1000 Series Routers with removable line cards
Cisco cBR-8 Converged Broadband Routers running certain Cisco IOS XE 3.16 through 16.5 releases

Exploitation Mechanism

Physical connection to the console port on the line card is required for exploitation, enabling the attacker to gain complete access to the device's operating system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the exploitation of this vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable unused console ports to limit physical access points
Implement strict physical security measures to prevent unauthorized access

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit physical access to critical devices
Train staff on physical security best practices to prevent unauthorized access

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by Cisco to address the vulnerability