CVE-2019-1589 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2019-1589, a security flaw in Cisco Nexus 9000 Series Fabric Switches in ACI mode allowing unauthorized access to sensitive information. Find out the impact, affected systems, and mitigation steps.
A security flaw in Cisco Nexus 9000 Series Fabric Switches in ACI mode allows a local attacker with physical access to gain sensitive information. The vulnerability lies in the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) functionality.
Understanding CVE-2019-1589
This CVE involves a vulnerability in the TPM functionality of Cisco Nexus 9000 Series Fabric Switches in ACI mode, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data.
What is CVE-2019-1589?
The vulnerability arises from inadequate protection of disk encryption keys used in the device's hard drive partitions. A local attacker without authentication but with physical access can exploit this flaw to access sensitive information on the affected device.
The Impact of CVE-2019-1589
The absence of proper data protection mechanisms for disk encryption keys can allow attackers to execute a customized boot process or conduct further attacks on the device.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-1589
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in the TPM functionality of Cisco Nexus 9000 Series Fabric Switches in ACI mode allows unauthorized access to sensitive information due to inadequate protection of disk encryption keys.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Cisco NX-OS Software for Nexus 9000 Series Fabric Switches ACI Mode
- Vendor: Cisco
- Version: 8.3(0)SK(0.39)
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Complexity: High
- Attack Vector: Physical
- Privileges Required: None
- User Interaction: None
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Integrity Impact: None
- Availability Impact: None
- Vector String: CVSS:3.0/AV:P/AC:H/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting against and mitigating the CVE-2019-1589 vulnerability is crucial for system security.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Implement physical security measures to prevent unauthorized access to devices.
- Regularly monitor and audit access to sensitive information.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Encrypt sensitive data to protect it from unauthorized access.
- Train employees on physical security best practices to prevent unauthorized access.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches and updates provided by Cisco to address the vulnerability and enhance system security.