CVE-2019-1605 : What You Need to Know

A vulnerability has been found in Cisco NX-OS Software in the NX-API feature, allowing an authenticated local attacker to execute arbitrary code with root privileges. This vulnerability arises from inadequate input validation within the NX-API feature.

Understanding CVE-2019-1605

This CVE affects various Cisco products in specific versions due to a vulnerability in the NX-API feature.

What is CVE-2019-1605?

The vulnerability in Cisco NX-OS Software's NX-API feature enables an attacker to execute arbitrary code as root by exploiting incorrect input validation. The attacker can trigger a buffer overflow by sending a crafted HTTP or HTTPS request to an affected device with the NX-API feature enabled.

The Impact of CVE-2019-1605

CVSS Score: 7.8 (High)
Attack Vector: Local
Attack Complexity: Low
Privileges Required: Low
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High

Technical Details of CVE-2019-1605

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows an authenticated local attacker to execute arbitrary code with root privileges due to inadequate input validation in the NX-API feature.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following Cisco products are affected:

MDS 9000 Series Multilayer Switches (versions prior to 8.1(1))
Nexus 3000 Series Switches (versions prior to 7.0(3)I4(8) and 7.0(3)I7(1))
Nexus 3500 Platform Switches (versions prior to 6.0(2)A8(8))
Nexus 3600 Platform Switches (versions prior to 7.0(3)F3(5))
Nexus 2000, 5500, 5600, and 6000 Series Switches (versions prior to 7.3(2)N1(1))
Nexus 7000 and 7700 Series Switches (versions prior to 7.3(3)D1(1))
Nexus 9000 Series Switches in Standalone NX-OS Mode (versions prior to 7.0(3)I4(8) and 7.0(3)I7(1))
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 an authenticated local attacker sending a carefully crafted HTTP or HTTPS request to an internal service on an affected device with the NX-API feature enabled.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2019-1605, follow these steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable the NX-API feature if not required
Apply vendor-supplied patches or updates

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and update security configurations
Conduct security training for personnel

Patching and Updates

Ensure that affected systems are updated with the latest patches and security updates.