CVE-2018-0233 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2018-0233, a vulnerability in the SSL packet reassembly feature of Cisco Firepower System Software, potentially leading to a denial of service (DoS) attack. Find mitigation steps and affected systems.
A vulnerability in the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) packet reassembly feature of the Cisco Firepower System Software's detection engine could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to cause a denial of service (DoS) condition by consuming excessive system memory on the affected device.
Understanding CVE-2018-0233
This CVE involves a vulnerability in the SSL packet reassembly functionality of the Cisco Firepower System Software's detection engine, potentially leading to a DoS attack.
What is CVE-2018-0233?
The vulnerability arises from incorrect handling of changes to SSL connection states by the software, allowing an attacker to send manipulated SSL connections through the affected device, leading to excessive memory consumption and a DoS condition.
The Impact of CVE-2018-0233
- Successful exploitation could result in the detection engine consuming excessive system memory, necessitating manual device reloading for recovery.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-0233
This section provides detailed technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
- The vulnerability in the SSL packet reassembly functionality of the Cisco Firepower System Software's detection engine allows for excessive memory consumption on affected devices.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Cisco Firepower System Software Releases 6.0.0 and later are impacted.
- Affected Cisco products include ASA 5500-X Series Firewalls, Advanced Malware Protection (AMP) for Networks, Firepower 4100 and 9300 Series Appliances, and more.
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attackers exploit the vulnerability by sending manipulated SSL connections through the affected device, causing memory consumption and a DoS condition.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2018-0233 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor-provided patches and updates promptly to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor network traffic for any signs of exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch all software and firmware to prevent vulnerabilities.
- Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Patching and Updates
- Ensure all affected systems are updated with the latest patches from Cisco to address the vulnerability.