CVE-2019-16028 : Security Advisory and Response

Cisco Firepower Management Center Lightweight Directory Access Protocol Authentication Bypass Vulnerability

Understanding CVE-2019-16028

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the web-based management interface of Cisco Firepower Management Center (FMC) that allows unauthorized attackers to bypass authentication and gain administrative access.

What is CVE-2019-16028?

The vulnerability arises from the improper handling of Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) authentication responses, enabling attackers to send tailored HTTP requests to the device and potentially gain administrative access.

The Impact of CVE-2019-16028

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 9.8, indicating a critical severity level with high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems. No public announcements or malicious exploits have been reported.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-16028

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows unauthorized attackers to bypass authentication and perform administrative actions on affected Cisco Firepower Management Center devices by exploiting the mishandling of LDAP authentication responses.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Cisco Firepower Management Center
Vendor: Cisco
Affected Version: n/a

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by sending tailored HTTP requests to the device, gaining administrative access to the web-based management interface.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the latest security patches provided by Cisco to address the vulnerability.
Monitor Cisco's security advisories for any updates or additional guidance.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Regularly review and update access control policies to prevent unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches released by Cisco to mitigate the vulnerability.