CVE-2019-1659 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2019-1659, a high-severity vulnerability in Cisco Prime Infrastructure (PI) allowing a man-in-the-middle attack on the SSL tunnel between PI and Identity Services Engine (ISE). Find mitigation steps and affected versions here.
Cisco Prime Infrastructure Certificate Validation Vulnerability
Understanding CVE-2019-1659
This CVE involves a weakness in the integration feature of Cisco Prime Infrastructure (PI) with the Identity Services Engine (ISE), potentially allowing a man-in-the-middle attack on the SSL tunnel between ISE and PI.
What is CVE-2019-1659?
The vulnerability arises from inadequate validation of the server SSL certificate during the SSL tunnel setup with ISE. An attacker could exploit this by using a crafted SSL certificate to intercept and tamper with communications between ISE and PI.
The Impact of CVE-2019-1659
- CVSS Base Score: 7.4 (High Severity)
- Attack Vector: Network
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Integrity Impact: High
- Privileges Required: None
- User Interaction: None
Technical Details of CVE-2019-1659
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows an unauthenticated attacker to perform a man-in-the-middle attack on the SSL tunnel between ISE and PI due to improper SSL certificate validation.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Cisco Prime Infrastructure Software Releases 2.2 through 3.4.0
Exploitation Mechanism
To exploit, the attacker needs a crafted SSL certificate to intercept and modify communications between ISE and PI.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Disable the integration feature of PI with ISE if not required
- Implement network segmentation to limit access
- Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch Cisco Prime Infrastructure software
- Conduct security assessments and audits periodically
Patching and Updates
Apply the latest patches and updates provided by Cisco to address this vulnerability.