CVE-2018-0252 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2018-0252, a vulnerability in Cisco Wireless LAN Controller software allowing unauthorized attackers to cause denial of service by triggering device reloads.
A weakness in the function responsible for reassembling IPv4 fragments in Cisco Wireless LAN Controller software could allow an unauthorized attacker to cause a denial of service situation by prompting the affected device to reload.
Understanding CVE-2018-0252
This CVE involves a vulnerability in the IP Version 4 (IPv4) fragment reassembly function of Cisco 3500, 5500, and 8500 Series Wireless LAN Controller Software.
What is CVE-2018-0252?
The vulnerability allows an unauthenticated remote attacker to send malformed IPv4 fragments to the device, causing it to reload unexpectedly and resulting in a denial of service condition.
The Impact of CVE-2018-0252
- Unauthorized attackers can exploit the weakness to prompt affected devices to reload, leading to denial of service situations.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-0252
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
- The vulnerability is caused by corruption in the internal data structure process during the reassembly of certain IPv4 packets.
Affected Systems and Versions
- All versions of 8.4 until the first fixed release for the 5500 and 8500 Series Wireless LAN Controllers are affected.
- Versions 8.5.103.0 and 8.5.105.0 for the 3500, 5500, and 8500 Series Wireless LAN Controllers are also vulnerable.
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attackers exploit the weakness by sending malformed IPv4 fragments to the device, triggering a reload and leading to a denial of service situation.
Mitigation and Prevention
Steps to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2018-0252 vulnerability.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor-provided patches and updates promptly.
- Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor and update network security measures.
- Conduct security assessments and audits to identify and address vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories and updates from the vendor to apply patches as soon as they are available.