CVE-2017-6142 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2017-6142, a vulnerability in F5 Networks, Inc.'s BIG-IP Advanced Firewall Manager versions 13.0.0, 12.1.0-12.1.2, and 11.6.0-11.6.2. Understand the impact, affected systems, exploitation, and mitigation steps.
CVE-2017-6142, published on January 18, 2018, addresses a vulnerability in F5 Networks, Inc.'s BIG-IP Advanced Firewall Manager (AFM) versions 13.0.0, 12.1.0-12.1.2, and 11.6.0-11.6.2 related to X509 certificate verification. The incorrect implementation of this feature led to inaccurate validation of the remote server's identity on specific versions of BIG-IP.
Understanding CVE-2017-6142
This CVE entry highlights a flaw in the X509 certificate verification process within the initial release of the "user id" feature in F5 BIG-IP AFM.
What is CVE-2017-6142?
The vulnerability stemmed from the incorrect implementation of X509 certificate verification in specific versions of F5 BIG-IP AFM, leading to inaccurate validation of the remote server's identity.
The Impact of CVE-2017-6142
The vulnerability could potentially allow malicious actors to exploit the inaccurate validation of the remote server's identity, compromising the security of affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-6142
This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw in X509 certificate verification within the "user id" feature of F5 BIG-IP AFM versions 13.0.0, 12.1.0-12.1.2, and 11.6.0-11.6.2 resulted in incorrect validation of the remote server's identity.
Affected Systems and Versions
- BIG-IP AFM 13.0.0
- BIG-IP AFM 12.1.0 - 12.1.2
- BIG-IP AFM 11.6.0 - 11.6.2
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability could be exploited by attackers to bypass accurate validation of the remote server's identity on the affected versions of F5 BIG-IP AFM.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-6142 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches provided by F5 Networks to address the X509 certificate verification issue.
- Monitor network traffic for any signs of unauthorized access or malicious activity.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch software to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.
- Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to threats.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that all F5 BIG-IP AFM installations are updated with the latest patches to fix the X509 certificate verification vulnerability.