CVE-2018-0420 : What You Need to Know

Cisco Wireless LAN Controller Software has a vulnerability that allows an authenticated remote attacker to access confidential data through directory traversal methods.

Understanding CVE-2018-0420

This CVE involves a security weakness in Cisco Wireless LAN Controller Software that could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information.

What is CVE-2018-0420?

The vulnerability in Cisco Wireless LAN Controller Software arises from inadequate cleaning of user-provided input in HTTP request parameters, enabling an attacker to view confidential data by exploiting directory traversal techniques.

The Impact of CVE-2018-0420

Confidentiality Impact: High
Base Score: 6.5 (Medium Severity)
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: None

Technical Details of CVE-2018-0420

The technical aspects of the vulnerability are as follows:

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows an authenticated remote attacker to access confidential data by manipulating HTTP request parameters.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Cisco Wireless LAN Controller (WLC)
Vendor: Cisco
Affected Version: Not applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by using directory traversal methods to specify a path to access specific files on the targeted device.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent exploitation of this vulnerability:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-provided patches or updates promptly.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.
Restrict access to the web-based interface of the affected software.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Conduct regular security assessments and audits.

Patching and Updates

Cisco has released security advisories addressing this vulnerability. Ensure to apply the latest patches and updates to mitigate the risk of exploitation.