CVE-2017-6679 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

CVE-2017-6679 is a vulnerability in the Cisco Umbrella Virtual Appliance that allowed an undisclosed encrypted remote support tunnel, potentially compromising security.

Understanding CVE-2017-6679

This CVE relates to a security issue in the Cisco Umbrella Virtual Appliance, affecting versions 2.0.3 and earlier.

What is CVE-2017-6679?

The previous version of the Cisco Umbrella Virtual Appliance had an undisclosed encrypted remote support tunnel that automatically connected the appliance to Cisco's SSH Hubs without explicit customer approval.

The Impact of CVE-2017-6679

This vulnerability could allow unauthorized access to the appliance, posing a risk to the confidentiality and integrity of the data processed by the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-6679

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allowed for an undocumented encrypted remote support tunnel, enabling unauthorized access to the Cisco Umbrella Virtual Appliance.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: n/a
Product: Cisco Umbrella Virtual Appliance Version 2.0.3 and prior

Exploitation Mechanism

Unauthorized personnel could exploit the vulnerability to gain full access to the appliance without customer approval.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to the latest version, 2.1.0, which requires explicit customer approval for SSH tunnel connections.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity related to SSH connections.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to address security vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential breaches.
Conduct regular security audits and assessments to identify and mitigate risks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates provided by Cisco to address known vulnerabilities.