CVE-2017-6746 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Cisco Web Security Appliance (WSA) has a vulnerability in its web interface that allows a remote attacker with valid administrator credentials to inject commands and gain root user privileges. This CVE affects Cisco AsyncOS Software versions 10.0 and newer.

Understanding CVE-2017-6746

The vulnerability in the Cisco Web Security Appliance (WSA) web interface can lead to command injection and privilege escalation, posing a significant security risk.

What is CVE-2017-6746?

This CVE identifies a weakness in the web interface of Cisco Web Security Appliance (WSA) that enables an authenticated remote attacker to execute commands and elevate privileges to root level.

The Impact of CVE-2017-6746

The vulnerability allows attackers to inject commands and potentially gain unauthorized access with elevated privileges, compromising the security and integrity of the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-6746

The technical aspects of the vulnerability provide insight into its nature and potential exploitation.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the web interface of Cisco Web Security Appliance (WSA) permits authenticated remote attackers to perform command injection and escalate their privileges to root level.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Products: Cisco AsyncOS Software 10.0 and later for WSA on both virtual and hardware appliances.
Known Affected Release: 10.1.0-204
Known Fixed Releases: 10.5.1-270, 10.1.1-235

Exploitation Mechanism

The attacker needs valid administrator credentials to exploit the vulnerability, injecting malicious commands through the web interface to gain root privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

Addressing CVE-2017-6746 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures to safeguard systems.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the provided fixed releases (10.5.1-270, 10.1.1-235) to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor and restrict access to the web interface of Cisco Web Security Appliance to authorized personnel only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch the Cisco Web Security Appliance to prevent known vulnerabilities.
Implement strong authentication mechanisms and access controls to limit unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security advisories from Cisco and apply patches promptly to ensure the security of the Web Security Appliance.