CVE-2019-1783 : Security Advisory and Response

A weakness has been identified in Cisco NX-OS Software, allowing authenticated attackers with administrator credentials to execute arbitrary commands with root privileges.

Understanding CVE-2019-1783

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the Command Line Interface (CLI) of Cisco NX-OS Software.

What is CVE-2019-1783?

The vulnerability allows attackers with administrator credentials to run arbitrary commands on the underlying Linux OS with root privileges due to improper validation of CLI command arguments.

The Impact of CVE-2019-1783

CVSS Base Score: 6.7 (Medium Severity)
Attack Vector: Local
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
Privileges Required: High

Technical Details of CVE-2019-1783

This section provides more in-depth technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

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

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Cisco NX-OS Software
Vendor: Cisco
Versions Affected: Less than 8.3(1) (unspecified)

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers input malicious data as an argument for the affected command, leveraging valid administrator credentials to execute arbitrary commands on the Linux OS with elevated privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from this vulnerability requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-provided patches promptly
Monitor network traffic for signs of exploitation
Restrict access to vulnerable systems

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software
Implement the principle of least privilege
Conduct security training and awareness programs

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security updates and patches from Cisco to address this vulnerability.