CVE-2017-7543 : Security Advisory and Response

A flaw related to a race-condition in openstack-neutron versions before 7.2.0-12.1, 8.x before 8.3.0-11.1, 9.x before 9.3.1-2.1, and 10.x before 10.0.2-1.1 caused the disabling of neutron security groups after a minor overcloud update, potentially exposing tenant VMs and network resources.

Understanding CVE-2017-7543

This CVE involves a vulnerability in openstack-neutron that could be exploited by an attacker to access exposed tenant VMs and network resources.

What is CVE-2017-7543?

A race-condition flaw in openstack-neutron versions allowed attackers to disable security groups during an update, granting unauthorized access to tenant resources.

The Impact of CVE-2017-7543

CVSS Score: 5.3 (Medium Severity)
Attack Complexity: High
Attack Vector: Network
Confidentiality Impact: High
User Interaction: Required

Technical Details of CVE-2017-7543

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw reset critical values during an update, leading to the disabling of neutron security groups and potential unauthorized access.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Versions: openstack-neutron-7.2.0-12.1, 8.3.0-11.1, 9.3.1-2.1, 10.0.2-1.1
Vendor: Red Hat

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers could trigger the race-condition during an update to reset values, gaining access to tenant VMs and network resources.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-7543 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor patches promptly
Monitor and restrict network access
Conduct security assessments regularly

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement network segmentation
Enforce the principle of least privilege
Educate users on security best practices

Patching and Updates

Apply the latest patches from Red Hat
Keep systems up to date with security fixes