CVE-2018-0152 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A weakness has been identified in the web-based user interface (web UI) of Cisco IOS XE Software that could potentially allow a remote attacker, who is authenticated, to obtain higher privileges on a targeted device.

Understanding CVE-2018-0152

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Cisco IOS XE Software that could lead to privilege escalation for authenticated remote attackers.

What is CVE-2018-0152?

The vulnerability in the web-based user interface of Cisco IOS XE Software allows attackers with valid credentials to gain elevated privileges on affected devices by exploiting the software's failure to reset privilege levels for each web UI session.

The Impact of CVE-2018-0152

Remote attackers with authenticated access can potentially gain higher privileges on targeted devices.
Successful exploitation could grant access with the same privileges as the previously logged-in user.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-0152

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the failure of the affected software to reset privilege levels for each web UI session, enabling attackers to exploit this flaw for privilege escalation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Cisco devices running Cisco IOS XE Software Release 16.1.1 are impacted.
Devices with the HTTP Server feature enabled and lacking proper authorization for EXEC sessions are vulnerable.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by remotely accessing a VTY line on the device with valid credentials.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-0152 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable the HTTP Server feature if not required.
Implement proper authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) authorization for EXEC sessions.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and update Cisco IOS XE Software to patch known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security audits to identify and address potential weaknesses.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by Cisco to address the vulnerability in affected versions of Cisco IOS XE Software.