CVE-2018-0116 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2018-0116, a vulnerability in Cisco Policy Suite allowing unauthorized access via RADIUS authentication. Find mitigation steps and affected versions here.
A vulnerability in the RADIUS authentication module of Cisco Policy Suite allows an unauthorized attacker to gain authorization as a subscriber without a valid password.
Understanding CVE-2018-0116
This CVE identifies a flaw in the RADIUS authentication module of Cisco Policy Suite that could be exploited by attackers.
What is CVE-2018-0116?
The vulnerability in the RADIUS authentication module of Cisco Policy Suite enables an unauthorized attacker to gain subscriber authorization without a valid password, only requiring a valid username.
The Impact of CVE-2018-0116
- Attackers can exploit this flaw to access a Cisco Policy Suite domain configured with RADIUS authentication and gain subscriber authorization without a valid password.
- Versions of Cisco Policy Suite prior to 13.1.0 with Hotfix Patch 1 are affected, as well as Cisco Policy Suite Release 14.0.0.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-0116
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from improper validation of RADIUS user credentials in Cisco Policy Suite.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Versions of Cisco Policy Suite before 13.1.0 with Hotfix Patch 1 are vulnerable if RADIUS authentication is configured for a domain.
- Cisco Policy Suite Release 14.0.0 is also impacted, despite RADIUS authentication not being officially supported.
Exploitation Mechanism
Exploiting this vulnerability involves attempting to access a Cisco Policy Suite domain configured with RADIUS authentication to gain unauthorized subscriber authorization.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from this vulnerability requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the necessary patches and updates provided by Cisco to address this vulnerability.
- Disable RADIUS authentication if not essential for operations.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor and update Cisco Policy Suite to ensure the latest security patches are in place.
- Implement strong password policies and multi-factor authentication to enhance security.
Patching and Updates
- Install Hotfix Patch 1 for Cisco Policy Suite versions prior to 13.1.0 to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Stay informed about security advisories from Cisco to apply relevant patches promptly.