CVE-2017-6143 : Security Advisory and Response

In F5 BIG-IP versions 12.0.0-12.1.2, 11.6.0-11.6.2, and 11.5.0-11.5.5, there is an issue with correctly implementing X509 certificate verification in the IP Intelligence Subscription and IP Intelligence feed-list features. This leads to inaccurate validation of the remote server's identity.

Understanding CVE-2017-6143

This CVE highlights a vulnerability in F5 BIG-IP versions that impacts the accurate validation of remote server identities.

What is CVE-2017-6143?

CVE-2017-6143 is a vulnerability in F5 BIG-IP versions 12.0.0-12.1.2, 11.6.0-11.6.2, and 11.5.0-11.5.5, affecting the correct implementation of X509 certificate verification.

The Impact of CVE-2017-6143

The vulnerability results in the failure to accurately validate the identity of remote servers, potentially exposing systems to man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-6143

This section provides technical details regarding the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue lies in the incorrect implementation of X509 certificate verification in the IP Intelligence Subscription and IP Intelligence feed-list features of F5 BIG-IP versions specified.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: BIG-IP (AFM, ASM)
Vendor: F5 Networks, Inc.
Versions Affected: 12.0.0-12.1.2, 11.6.0-11.6.2, 11.5.0-11.5.5

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows threat actors to potentially conduct MITM attacks due to the inaccurate validation of remote server identities.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-6143 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-supplied patches or updates promptly.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.
Implement additional security measures such as encryption.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to address vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and audits to identify weaknesses.
Educate users on safe browsing habits and security best practices.

Patching and Updates

F5 Networks, Inc. may release patches or updates to address the X509 certificate verification issue in the affected versions of BIG-IP.