CVE-2019-15753 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2019-15753 affecting OpenStack os-vif versions 1.15.x before 1.15.2 and 1.16.0. Discover the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
OpenStack os-vif versions 1.15.x before 1.15.2 and 1.16.0 have a vulnerability that affects the MAC aging time in the linuxbridge backend, leading to potential security risks.
Understanding CVE-2019-15753
This CVE involves a vulnerability in OpenStack os-vif versions 1.15.x before 1.15.2 and 1.16.0, impacting the MAC aging time in the linuxbridge backend.
What is CVE-2019-15753?
In OpenStack os-vif versions 1.15.x before 1.15.2 and 1.16.0, a hardcoded MAC aging time of 0 disables MAC learning in linuxbridge. This results in non-local destination Ethernet flooding, hindering network performance and potentially allowing access to packet content of instances belonging to other tenants on the same network.
The Impact of CVE-2019-15753
The vulnerability can lead to the following consequences:
- Disabling MAC learning in the linuxbridge backend
- Non-local destination Ethernet flooding
- Impaired network performance
- Potential unauthorized access to packet content of instances
Technical Details of CVE-2019-15753
This section provides technical details of the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from a fixed MAC aging time of 0 in the linuxbridge backend of OpenStack os-vif versions 1.15.x before 1.15.2 and 1.16.0.
Affected Systems and Versions
- OpenStack os-vif versions 1.15.x before 1.15.2
- OpenStack os-vif version 1.16.0
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability forces obligatory Ethernet flooding of non-local destinations, impacting network performance and potentially exposing packet content of instances belonging to other tenants.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2019-15753 is crucial. Here are some mitigation strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the necessary patches provided by OpenStack to address the vulnerability
- Monitor network traffic for any unusual patterns
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch OpenStack installations
- Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential breaches
Patching and Updates
- Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches provided by OpenStack