CVE-2019-1748 : Security Advisory and Response

Cisco IOS and IOS XE Software Network Plug-and-Play Agent Certificate Validation Vulnerability

Understanding CVE-2019-1748

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the Cisco Network Plug-and-Play (PnP) agent in Cisco IOS Software and Cisco IOS XE Software that could allow unauthorized access to sensitive data.

What is CVE-2019-1748?

The vulnerability arises from the affected software's inadequate certificate validation, enabling a remote attacker to exploit it by providing a modified certificate to a vulnerable device.

The Impact of CVE-2019-1748

If successfully exploited, this vulnerability could lead to man-in-the-middle attacks, allowing attackers to intercept and manipulate confidential information exchanged between users and the affected software.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-1748

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Cisco PnP agent of IOS and IOS XE Software allows unauthenticated remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data due to insufficient certificate validation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Cisco IOS and IOS XE Software versions 3.7.7S to 3.10.0cE are affected.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: High
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: None
CVSS Base Score: 7.4 (High)
CVSS Vector: AV:N/AC:H/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:N

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the latest security patches provided by Cisco.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and update security certificates on devices.
Conduct security training for employees to recognize and report suspicious activities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Cisco and promptly apply recommended patches to mitigate vulnerabilities.