CVE-2018-0277 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A vulnerability in the Extensible Authentication Protocol-Transport Layer Security (EAP-TLS) certificate validation during EAP authentication for the Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to cause the ISE application server to restart unexpectedly, leading to a denial of service (DoS) condition on an affected system.

Understanding CVE-2018-0277

This CVE involves a flaw in the certificate validation process during EAP-TLS authentication for Cisco ISE, potentially exploitable by a remote unauthorized attacker.

What is CVE-2018-0277?

The vulnerability arises from inadequate validation of the client EAP-TLS certificate input, enabling an attacker to trigger an unexpected restart of the ISE application server, resulting in a DoS situation.

The Impact of CVE-2018-0277

Unauthorized remote attackers can exploit the flaw to cause a denial of service by restarting the ISE application server.
The vulnerability requires valid administrator credentials for successful exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-0277

This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw lies in incomplete input validation of the client EAP-TLS certificate during EAP authentication for Cisco ISE.

Affected Systems and Versions

Cisco Identity Services Engine, Cisco ISE Express, and Cisco ISE Virtual Appliance are impacted.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers initiate EAP authentication over TLS to the ISE using a specially-crafted EAP-TLS certificate to trigger the restart of the ISE application server.

Mitigation and Prevention

Guidelines to address and prevent the CVE-2018-0277 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the necessary patches and updates provided by Cisco to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities that may indicate an ongoing attack.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and systems to prevent potential vulnerabilities.
Implement strong network segmentation and access controls to limit unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Cisco and promptly apply recommended patches to secure the system.