CVE-2017-6718 : Security Advisory and Response

Cisco IOS XR software contains a vulnerability that allows an authenticated local attacker to escalate privileges to the administrator level. Versions 6.2.1.BASE are affected, while versions 6.2.11.3i.ROUT, 6.2.1.29i.ROUT, and 6.2.1.26i.ROUT have been patched to address this issue.

Understanding CVE-2017-6718

This CVE involves a privilege escalation vulnerability in Cisco IOS XR software.

What is CVE-2017-6718?

The vulnerability in the Command Line Interface (CLI) of Cisco IOS XR Software enables a local attacker to elevate their privileges to the administrator level.

The Impact of CVE-2017-6718

An authenticated local attacker can exploit this weakness to gain administrator privileges on the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-6718

Cisco IOS XR software vulnerability details.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows an authenticated local attacker to escalate privileges to the administrator level by exploiting the weakness in the CLI of Cisco IOS XR Software.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Cisco IOS XR
Affected Version: 6.2.1.BASE

Exploitation Mechanism

The attacker needs local access to the system and authentication to exploit this vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-6718.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the necessary patches provided by Cisco to fix the vulnerability.
Monitor system logs for any unusual activities that might indicate exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to prevent known vulnerabilities.
Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user access and permissions.

Patching and Updates

Ensure all systems running Cisco IOS XR software are updated with the latest patches from Cisco to mitigate the vulnerability.