CVE-2019-1803 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2019-1803, a high-severity vulnerability in Cisco Nexus 9000 Series ACI Mode Switch Software allowing attackers to gain root privileges. Find mitigation steps and long-term security practices here.
Cisco Nexus 9000 Series Fabric Switches Application Centric Infrastructure Mode Root Privilege Escalation Vulnerability
Understanding CVE-2019-1803
This CVE involves a weakness in the filesystem management of Cisco Nexus 9000 Series Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) Mode Switch Software, allowing an authenticated local attacker to gain root privileges on the targeted device.
What is CVE-2019-1803?
The vulnerability stems from overly permissive file permissions on specific system files, enabling an attacker with administrator privileges to execute arbitrary OS commands as the root user.
The Impact of CVE-2019-1803
- CVSS Base Score: 7.8 (High Severity)
- Attack Vector: Local
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Integrity Impact: High
- Availability Impact: High
- Privileges Required: Low
Technical Details of CVE-2019-1803
The following technical details outline the specifics of this vulnerability:
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows an attacker to escalate privileges to root by exploiting file permission weaknesses in the Cisco Nexus 9000 Series ACI Mode Switch Software.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Cisco NX-OS Software for Nexus 9000 Series Fabric Switches ACI Mode
- Versions Affected: Less than 14.1(1i) (Unspecified)
Exploitation Mechanism
To exploit this vulnerability, the attacker needs to authenticate on the device, craft a specific command string, and write it to a designated file location to execute arbitrary OS commands as the root user.
Mitigation and Prevention
Taking immediate steps and implementing long-term security practices are crucial to mitigating the risks associated with CVE-2019-1803.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor-provided patches or updates promptly.
- Monitor network activity for any signs of unauthorized access.
- Restrict access to critical systems and files.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly review and update file permissions on critical system files.
- Conduct security training to educate users on best practices for credential protection.
Patching and Updates
- Regularly check for security advisories from Cisco and apply patches as soon as they are available.