CVE-2018-6186 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Citrix NetScaler VPX version NS12.0 53.13.nc is vulnerable to an SSRF attack that allows an authenticated attacker to gain unauthorized access to the nsroot account and execute remote commands with root privileges.

Understanding CVE-2018-6186

This CVE involves a security vulnerability in Citrix NetScaler VPX version NS12.0 53.13.nc that enables attackers to perform SSRF attacks.

What is CVE-2018-6186?

An authenticated attacker with a webapp account can exploit Citrix NetScaler VPX version NS12.0 53.13.nc by performing an SSRF attack through the /rapi/read_url URI. This attack allows the attacker to gain unauthorized access to the nsroot account and execute remote commands with root privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2018-6186

The vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access to the nsroot account and the execution of remote commands with root privileges, posing a significant security risk to affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-6186

This section provides more in-depth technical details about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Citrix NetScaler VPX version NS12.0 53.13.nc allows an authenticated attacker to perform an SSRF attack via the /rapi/read_url URI, leading to unauthorized access to the nsroot account and the execution of remote commands with root privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Citrix NetScaler VPX
Version: NS12.0 53.13.nc

Exploitation Mechanism

The attacker needs an authenticated webapp account to exploit the SSRF vulnerability through the /rapi/read_url URI, gaining access to the nsroot account and executing remote commands with root privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-6186 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-supplied patches or updates promptly.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity, especially around the /rapi/read_url URI.
Restrict access to vulnerable systems and accounts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and systems to prevent known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security training for users to recognize and report suspicious activities.
Implement strong access controls and least privilege principles to limit potential attack surfaces.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that Citrix NetScaler VPX version NS12.0 53.13.nc is updated with the latest patches and security updates to mitigate the SSRF vulnerability.