CVE-2018-0481 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Cisco IOS XE Software Command Injection Vulnerabilities

Understanding CVE-2018-0481

This CVE involves a weakness in the CLI parser of Cisco IOS XE Software that could allow a local attacker with authentication to execute commands on the underlying Linux shell of an impacted device with root privileges.

What is CVE-2018-0481?

The vulnerability arises from the software's failure to properly sanitize command arguments, enabling access to specific internal data structures on the affected device. An attacker with privileged EXEC mode access can exploit this by executing CLI commands with customized arguments, potentially leading to arbitrary command execution with root privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2018-0481

The CVSS base score for this vulnerability is 6.7 (Medium severity).

Technical Details of CVE-2018-0481

Vulnerability Description

The weakness in the CLI parser of Cisco IOS XE Software allows authenticated local attackers to execute commands on the device's Linux shell with root privileges due to improper sanitization of command arguments.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Cisco IOS XE Software
Vendor: Cisco
Affected Version: n/a

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with privileged EXEC mode access can exploit the vulnerability by executing CLI commands with customized arguments.
Successful exploitation grants the attacker the ability to execute arbitrary commands on the affected device with root privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-provided patches and updates promptly.
Restrict network access to affected devices.
Monitor for any unauthorized access or unusual activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and firmware.
Implement the principle of least privilege to limit user access rights.
Conduct security training and awareness programs for employees.

Patching and Updates

Refer to the vendor's security advisory for specific patch details and instructions.
Regularly check for updates and apply them to ensure system security.