CVE-2019-1729 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2019-1729, a vulnerability in Cisco NX-OS Software allowing local attackers to overwrite files with root privileges, potentially leading to a denial of service situation. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
A security flaw in Cisco NX-OS Software allows a local attacker to overwrite files with root privileges, potentially leading to a denial of service situation.
Understanding CVE-2019-1729
This CVE involves a vulnerability in the command-line interface (CLI) of Cisco NX-OS Software that could be exploited by authenticated local attackers.
What is CVE-2019-1729?
The vulnerability allows attackers to overwrite any file on the system, including critical files, due to the absence of user-input parameter verification and digital-signature verification for image files when using a specific CLI command.
The Impact of CVE-2019-1729
- Attack Vector: Local
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Privileges Required: High
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Integrity Impact: High
- Availability Impact: High
- CVSS Base Score: 6.7 (Medium Severity)
Technical Details of CVE-2019-1729
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw in the CLI implementation of a specific command in Cisco NX-OS Software allows authenticated local attackers to overwrite files with root privileges.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Cisco NX-OS Software
- Vendor: Cisco
- Versions Affected: < 8.3(1)
Exploitation Mechanism
To exploit this vulnerability, the attacker needs to authenticate on the system and issue a command through the CLI, potentially resulting in a denial of service situation.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protect your systems from CVE-2019-1729 with these mitigation strategies.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor patches promptly.
- Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities.
- Restrict access to critical systems and files.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement the principle of least privilege for user access.
- Regularly update and patch software to address vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security training for system administrators and users.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that you update affected systems to versions higher than 8.3(1) to mitigate the vulnerability.