CVE-2018-1000616 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in the ONOS ONOS controller version 1.13.1 and earlier allows for XML External Entity (XXE) attacks, potentially exploitable through network connectivity.

Understanding CVE-2018-1000616

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the loadxml() function of onos\drivers\utilities\src\main\java\org\onosproject\drivers\utilities\XmlConfigParser.java in the ONOS controller.

What is CVE-2018-1000616?

The vulnerability in the ONOS controller version 1.13.1 and earlier enables attackers to execute XXE attacks via an OpenConfig Terminal Device, accessible through network connections.

The Impact of CVE-2018-1000616

The exploit allows remote adversaries to launch XXE attacks on the ONOS controller, potentially leading to unauthorized access and data manipulation.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-1000616

The technical aspects of the vulnerability are as follows:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability exists in the loadxml() function of XmlConfigParser.java in the ONOS controller, facilitating XXE attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

ONOS ONOS controller version 1.13.1 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by conducting XXE attacks through an OpenConfig Terminal Device

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-1000616, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Implement network segmentation to limit access to the ONOS controller
Regularly monitor network traffic for suspicious activities

Long-Term Security Practices

Keep the ONOS controller and related systems up to date with the latest security patches
Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by ONOS to mitigate the vulnerability