CVE-2019-11851 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE record pertains to a vulnerability in the ACENet service in Sierra Wireless ALEOS versions, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code through a buffer overflow issue.

Understanding CVE-2019-11851

What is CVE-2019-11851?

The ACENet service in Sierra Wireless ALEOS versions prior to 4.4.9, 4.5.x through 4.9.x before 4.9.5, and 4.10.x through 4.13.x before 4.14.0 has a vulnerability that enables attackers to run arbitrary code by exploiting a buffer overflow issue.

The Impact of CVE-2019-11851

This vulnerability could allow malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected systems, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data breaches, and system compromise.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-11851

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the ACENet service allows attackers to exploit a buffer overflow issue, leading to the execution of arbitrary code.

Affected Systems and Versions

Sierra Wireless ALEOS versions prior to 4.4.9
Sierra Wireless ALEOS 4.5.x through 4.9.x before 4.9.5
Sierra Wireless ALEOS 4.10.x through 4.13.x before 4.14.0

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious input to trigger a buffer overflow, potentially gaining the ability to execute arbitrary code on the target system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Sierra Wireless ALEOS to version 4.14.0 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor network traffic for any signs of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Regularly update and patch all software and firmware to address security vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates provided by Sierra Wireless to address known vulnerabilities.