CVE-2018-5502 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

F5 Networks, Inc. reported a security vulnerability affecting BIG-IP versions 13.0.0 - 13.1.0.3, potentially leading to service disruption due to a flaw in client certificate handling.

Understanding CVE-2018-5502

This CVE involves a vulnerability in F5 BIG-IP versions 13.0.0 - 13.1.0.3 that could be exploited by attackers to disrupt services on the system.

What is CVE-2018-5502?

The vulnerability allows attackers to disrupt services on F5 BIG-IP systems by using a carefully crafted client certificate. It impacts virtual servers associated with the Client SSL profile.

The Impact of CVE-2018-5502

Attackers can disrupt services on BIG-IP systems by exploiting the vulnerability in client certificate handling.
The issue affects virtual servers linked to the Client SSL profile, enabling client certificate authentication.
Notably, the default setting of the Client SSL profile does not enable client certificate authentication, mitigating risks to the control plane.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-5502

F5 Networks, Inc. identified the following technical details regarding CVE-2018-5502:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in F5 BIG-IP versions 13.0.0 - 13.1.0.3 allows attackers to disrupt services by leveraging a specially crafted client certificate.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: BIG-IP (LTM, AAM, AFM, Analytics, APM, ASM, DNS, Edge Gateway, GTM, Link Controller, PEM, WebAccelerator, WebSafe)
Vendor: F5 Networks, Inc.
Versions: 13.0.0 - 13.1.0.3

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by using a carefully crafted client certificate to disrupt services on the BIG-IP system.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-5502, consider the following mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Monitor for any unusual activity on the affected systems.
Implement strict access controls and authentication mechanisms.
Regularly update and patch the BIG-IP systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing.
Educate users and administrators on secure practices.
Stay informed about security updates and best practices.

Patching and Updates

Apply the latest patches and updates provided by F5 Networks, Inc. to mitigate the vulnerability.