CVE-2019-1615 : What You Need to Know

A vulnerability in the Image Signature Verification feature of Cisco NX-OS Software could allow an authenticated, local attacker with administrator-level credentials to install a malicious software image on an affected device. The flaw arises from inadequate verification of digital signatures for software images, potentially enabling the attacker to boot a harmful software image.

Understanding CVE-2019-1615

This CVE identifies a security vulnerability in Cisco NX-OS Software that could be exploited by a local attacker with administrator privileges to install malicious software images.

What is CVE-2019-1615?

The vulnerability in the Image Signature Verification feature of Cisco NX-OS Software allows an attacker to load an unsigned software image on an affected device, potentially leading to the installation of harmful software.

The Impact of CVE-2019-1615

CVSS Score: 6.7 (Medium Severity)
Attack Vector: Local
Attack Complexity: Low
Privileges Required: High
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High

Technical Details of CVE-2019-1615

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows a local attacker with administrator credentials to install harmful software images due to inadequate verification of digital signatures.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following Cisco products and versions are affected:

Nexus 3000 Series Switches: Versions prior to 7.0(3)I7(5)
Nexus 9000 Series Fabric Switches in ACI Mode: Versions prior to 13.2(1l)
Nexus 9000 Series Switches in Standalone NX-OS Mode: Versions prior to 7.0(3)I7(5)
Nexus 9500 R-Series Line Cards and Fabric Modules: Versions prior to 7.0(3)F3(5)

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting this vulnerability involves loading an unsigned software image on the affected device, potentially allowing the attacker to boot a malicious software image.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2019-1615, follow these mitigation steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade the BIOS as part of the software upgrade process.
Implement strict access controls to prevent unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor for unauthorized changes to software images.
Conduct security training to educate users on safe software practices.

Patching and Updates

Apply the necessary software updates provided by Cisco to fix the vulnerability.