CVE-2019-1753 : Security Advisory and Response

A security weakness in the web user interface (UI) of Cisco IOS XE Software allows an authenticated, yet unprivileged remote attacker to execute privileged commands. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation in the Web Services Management Agent (WSMA) functionalities.

Understanding CVE-2019-1753

This CVE involves a privilege escalation vulnerability in Cisco IOS XE Software.

What is CVE-2019-1753?

The vulnerability in the web UI of Cisco IOS XE Software enables a lower-privileged attacker to run arbitrary commands with elevated privileges by submitting a malicious payload through the web UI.

The Impact of CVE-2019-1753

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 8.8, indicating a high severity level. It can lead to confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts on affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-1753

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows an authenticated attacker with low privileges to execute high-privileged commands through the web UI due to inadequate input validation in WSMA functions.

Affected Systems and Versions

Cisco IOS XE Software versions 3.6.10E, 16.1.1 to 16.8.1e are affected.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit the vulnerability, an attacker needs to send a malicious payload to the compromised device's web UI, granting them the ability to execute commands with elevated privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-1753 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-provided patches or updates promptly to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor network traffic for any signs of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to address security vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Cisco has released patches to address the vulnerability. Ensure all affected systems are updated with the latest security fixes.