CVE-2017-6639 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability in the role-based access control (RBAC) functionality of Cisco Prime Data Center Network Manager (DCNM) could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to access sensitive information or execute arbitrary code with root privileges on an affected system. This CVE was published on June 8, 2017.

Understanding CVE-2017-6639

This CVE pertains to a security flaw in Cisco Prime Data Center Network Manager (DCNM) that could potentially lead to unauthorized access and execution of commands on affected systems.

What is CVE-2017-6639?

The vulnerability in Cisco Prime DCNM allows attackers to gain unauthorized access to confidential information or execute unauthorized commands with complete control over the affected system. The flaw arises from the absence of authentication and authorization mechanisms for a debugging tool inadvertently activated in the software.

The Impact of CVE-2017-6639

If exploited, attackers can remotely connect to the debugging tool using TCP, enabling them to retrieve sensitive data or execute unrestricted commands with full administrative privileges on the affected system. This vulnerability affects Cisco Prime DCNM Software Releases 10.1(1) and 10.1(2) on various platforms.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-6639

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is a result of the lack of authentication and authorization mechanisms for a debugging tool enabled in the affected software, allowing attackers to exploit it remotely via TCP.

Affected Systems and Versions

Cisco Prime DCNM Software Releases 10.1(1) and 10.1(2) on Microsoft Windows, Linux, and Virtual Appliance platforms are impacted by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting this vulnerability involves remotely connecting to the debugging tool using TCP, granting unauthorized access to sensitive data and the ability to execute arbitrary commands.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2017-6639, follow these mitigation and prevention strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the necessary patches provided by Cisco to fix the vulnerability.
Restrict network access to the affected system to minimize the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to prevent vulnerabilities.
Implement strong authentication and authorization mechanisms to secure systems.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that you regularly check for security updates and apply patches promptly to protect systems from potential exploits.