CVE-2019-1601 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in Cisco NX-OS Software allows a local attacker with authentication privileges to gain unauthorized access to critical configuration files, potentially leading to identity theft and bypassing authentication.

Understanding CVE-2019-1601

This CVE affects various Cisco products due to lax filesystem permissions, enabling unauthorized access to configuration files.

What is CVE-2019-1601?

The vulnerability in Cisco NX-OS Software permits a local attacker to read and modify critical configuration files, potentially compromising system integrity.

The Impact of CVE-2019-1601

The vulnerability poses a high risk, allowing attackers to bypass authentication and assume user identities, potentially leading to unauthorized system access and data breaches.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-1601

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue stems from insufficient filesystem permissions in Cisco NX-OS Software, enabling unauthorized access to critical configuration files.

Affected Systems and Versions

MDS 9000 Series Multilayer Switches: Versions prior to 6.2(25), 8.1(1b), and 8.3(1)
Nexus 3000 Series Switches: Versions prior to 7.0(3)I4(9) and 7.0(3)I7(4)
Nexus 3500 Platform Switches: Versions prior to 6.0(2)A8(10) and 7.0(3)I7(4)
Nexus 3600 Platform Switches: Versions prior to 7.0(3)F3(5)
Nexus 2000, 5500, 5600, and 6000 Series Switches: Versions prior to 7.1(5)N1(1b) and 7.3(3)N1(1)
Nexus 7000 and 7700 Series Switches: Versions prior to 6.2(22), 7.3(3)D1(1), and 8.2(3)
Nexus 9000 Series Switches-Standalone: Versions prior to 7.0(3)I4(9) and 7.0(3)I7(4)
Nexus 9500 R-Series Line Cards and Fabric Modules: Versions prior to 7.0(3)F3(5)

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by a local attacker with authentication privileges to gain unauthorized access to critical configuration files, potentially leading to identity theft and system compromise.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2019-1601 with the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor patches and updates promptly
Monitor system logs for unauthorized access attempts
Restrict access to critical configuration files

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement least privilege access controls
Conduct regular security audits and assessments
Educate users on secure authentication practices

Patching and Updates

Cisco has released patches to address the vulnerability
Regularly check for and apply security updates to mitigate risks