CVE-2019-1769 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Cisco NX-OS Software Line Card Command Injection Vulnerability allows local attackers with administrator credentials to execute arbitrary commands on the Linux operating system of a connected line card with root privileges.

Understanding CVE-2019-1769

This CVE involves a security flaw in Cisco NX-OS Software's command line interface (CLI) that can be exploited by attackers with specific privileges.

What is CVE-2019-1769?

The vulnerability stems from inadequate validation of arguments for a specific CLI command on affected devices, enabling attackers to run arbitrary commands with elevated privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2019-1769

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Local
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
Privileges Required: High
User Interaction: None
CVSS Base Score: 6.7 (Medium Severity)

Technical Details of CVE-2019-1769

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows local attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the Linux OS of a connected line card with root privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Cisco NX-OS Software
Vendor: Cisco
Versions Affected: < 8.3(1)

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability by providing malicious input as an argument when using the affected CLI command.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2019-1769 with the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor patches promptly
Monitor network traffic for signs of exploitation
Restrict access to administrative privileges

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software
Conduct security training for system administrators

Patching and Updates

Ensure all affected systems are updated with the latest patches and security fixes.