CVE-2017-6737 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

Multiple vulnerabilities have been discovered in the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) subsystem of Cisco IOS and IOS XE, potentially allowing remote code execution or system reload by authenticated attackers.

Understanding CVE-2017-6737

What is CVE-2017-6737?

The vulnerabilities in the SNMP subsystem of Cisco IOS and IOS XE versions 12.0 through 12.4, 15.0 through 15.6, and IOS XE versions 2.2 through 3.17 can be exploited by sending manipulated SNMP packets to the affected system.

The Impact of CVE-2017-6737

The vulnerabilities could allow an authenticated remote attacker to execute code on the affected system or cause it to reload by exploiting buffer overflow issues within the SNMP subsystem.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-6737

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerabilities affect SNMP Versions 1, 2c, and 3.
Exploitation via SNMP Version 2c or earlier requires knowledge of the SNMP read-only community string.
Exploitation via SNMP Version 3 requires possession of user credentials.

Affected Systems and Versions

Cisco IOS versions 12.0 through 12.4 and 15.0 through 15.6.
Cisco IOS XE versions 2.2 through 3.17.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attacker sends manipulated SNMP packet via IPv4 or IPv6 to the affected system.
Only incoming traffic directed at the affected system can be used for exploitation.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable SNMP if not strictly required.
Implement access control lists (ACLs) to restrict SNMP traffic.
Apply the latest security updates and patches from Cisco.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit SNMP configurations.
Educate users on secure SNMP practices.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by Cisco to address the vulnerabilities.