CVE-2017-6606 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in a startup script of Cisco IOS XE Software allows an unauthenticated attacker with physical access to execute arbitrary commands on the system.

Understanding CVE-2017-6606

This CVE involves a Command Execution Vulnerability in Cisco IOS XE Software.

What is CVE-2017-6606?

The vulnerability in the startup script of Cisco IOS XE Software enables an attacker with physical access to execute arbitrary commands on the system with root user privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2017-6606

An unauthenticated attacker can execute arbitrary commands on the underlying operating system with root user privileges.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-6606

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows unauthorized execution of commands on the system.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected versions include 15.6(1.1)S, 16.1.2, 16.2.0, 15.2(1)E.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attacker with physical access exploits the vulnerability in the startup script to run unauthorized commands.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2017-6606 with these steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches for affected versions immediately.
Restrict physical access to systems.
Monitor system logs for suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch systems.
Implement strong access controls and authentication mechanisms.

Patching and Updates

Install fixed releases Denali-16.1.3, 16.2(1.8), 16.1(2.61), and others listed in the description.