CVE-2017-12334 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability has been found in the CLI of Cisco NX-OS System Software that could allow a local attacker with valid administrator credentials to carry out a command injection attack. The vulnerability arises from a lack of proper validation of command arguments.

Understanding CVE-2017-12334

This CVE identifies a security flaw in Cisco NX-OS System Software that enables a local attacker to execute unauthorized commands as root by injecting manipulated command arguments.

What is CVE-2017-12334?

The vulnerability in the CLI of Cisco NX-OS System Software allows a local attacker with valid administrator credentials to perform a command injection attack due to insufficient input validation of command arguments.

The Impact of CVE-2017-12334

An attacker could potentially execute unauthorized commands as root by injecting manipulated command arguments into a vulnerable CLI command.
Multiple products running Cisco NX-OS System Software are affected, including various switches and fabric extenders.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-12334

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows an authenticated, local attacker to execute arbitrary commands as root by injecting crafted command arguments into a vulnerable CLI command.

Affected Systems and Versions

Products running Cisco NX-OS System Software, including Multilayer Director Switches, Nexus Series Switches, and Unified Computing System Manager, are affected.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attacker needs valid administrator credentials to exploit the vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-12334 requires immediate steps and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-supplied patches and updates promptly.
Monitor network traffic for signs of exploitation.
Restrict access to vulnerable systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege for user access.
Regularly update and patch software to address security vulnerabilities.
Conduct security training for administrators and users.

Patching and Updates

Cisco has released patches to address this vulnerability. Ensure all affected systems are updated with the latest patches.