CVE-2019-1698 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability in Cisco IoT Field Network Director (IoT-FND) Software could allow unauthorized read access due to incorrect handling of XML External Entity (XXE) entries.

Understanding CVE-2019-1698

This CVE identifies a security flaw in Cisco IoT Field Network Director (IoT-FND) Software that could lead to unauthorized access to stored information.

What is CVE-2019-1698?

The vulnerability arises from the mishandling of XML External Entity (XXE) entries during the parsing of specific XML files, potentially granting unauthorized read access to stored data on affected systems.

The Impact of CVE-2019-1698

The vulnerability could be exploited by authenticated attackers to access files within the application, affecting confidentiality.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-1698

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows attackers to introduce manipulated XML files with malicious entries, exploiting the incorrect handling of XXE entries.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Cisco IoT Field Network Director (IoT-FND)
Vendor: Cisco
Versions Affected: Less than 4.4(0.26)

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: High
User Interaction: None
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: None
Availability Impact: None
Vector String: CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N

Mitigation and Prevention

Guidelines to mitigate and prevent the vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to version 4.4(0.26) or later to eliminate the vulnerability.
Monitor for any unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update security configurations.
Educate users on safe handling of files and data.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by Cisco to address the vulnerability.