CVE-2019-12624 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2019-12624, a high-severity vulnerability in Cisco IOS XE Software that allows unauthorized attackers to conduct CSRF attacks. Find mitigation steps and patching details here.
Cisco IOS XE NGWC Legacy Wireless Device Manager GUI Cross-Site Request Forgery Vulnerability
Understanding CVE-2019-12624
This CVE involves a weakness in the web-based management interface of the Cisco IOS XE New Generation Wireless Controller (NGWC) that could allow unauthorized external attackers to launch a cross-site request forgery (CSRF) attack.
What is CVE-2019-12624?
The vulnerability stems from inadequate CSRF safeguards on the web-based management interface of the affected Cisco IOS XE Software, enabling attackers to perform unauthorized actions on vulnerable devices by tricking users into clicking on malicious hyperlinks.
The Impact of CVE-2019-12624
The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 8.8 (High severity) with high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized actions on affected devices.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-12624
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows unauthenticated external attackers to conduct CSRF attacks on the affected device, exploiting insufficient CSRF protections on the web-based management interface.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Cisco IOS XE Software
- Vendor: Cisco
- Versions Affected: 3.xE
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Attack Vector: Network
- Privileges Required: None
- User Interaction: Required
- Scope: Unchanged
- Exploitation involves enticing a user to click on a crafted hyperlink to perform unauthorized actions on the device.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor-provided patches and updates promptly.
- Educate users about phishing attacks and suspicious links.
- Monitor network traffic for signs of CSRF attempts.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
- Regularly update and patch software to address security vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Cisco has released security advisories and patches to address the vulnerability. Refer to the vendor's advisory for detailed instructions on applying the necessary updates.