CVE-2018-0024 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability related to the management of privileges in Juniper Networks Junos OS allows attackers to gain complete control over the system.

Understanding CVE-2018-0024

A privilege escalation vulnerability exists in Junos OS, enabling authenticated users with shell access to become root.

What is CVE-2018-0024?

This CVE identifies an improper privilege management issue in Juniper Networks Junos OS, potentially leading to unauthorized users gaining full system control.

The Impact of CVE-2018-0024

CVSS Base Score: 7.8 (High Severity)
Attack Vector: Local
Attack Complexity: Low
Privileges Required: Low
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
Scope: Unchanged
User Interaction: None
Vector String: CVSS:3.0/AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H

Technical Details of CVE-2018-0024

A detailed look at the vulnerability and its implications.

Vulnerability Description

An improper privilege management flaw in Junos OS
Allows authenticated unprivileged attackers to gain full system control

Affected Systems and Versions

Junos OS versions 12.1X46-D45, 12.3X48-D20, 12.3R11, 14.1X53-D30, 15.1X49-D20, and earlier
Platforms: SRX Series, EX Series, EX2200/VC, EX3200, EX3300/VC, EX4200, EX4300, EX4550/VC, EX4600, EX6200, EX8200/VC (XRE), QFX3500, QFX3600, QFX5100

Exploitation Mechanism

No known malicious exploitation reported by Juniper SIRT

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disallow unprivileged authenticated users access to Junos shell
Limit shell access to trusted administrators

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update access control policies
Conduct security training for system administrators

Patching and Updates

Update to the following fixed software releases: Junos OS 12.1X46-D45, 12.3X48-D20, 12.3R11, 14.1X53-D30, 15.1X49-D20, and newer versions