CVE-2019-1811 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Cisco NX-OS CLI Command Software Image Signature Verification Vulnerabilities were discovered in Cisco NX-OS Software, potentially allowing a local attacker with administrator-level credentials to install malicious software images on affected devices.

Understanding CVE-2019-1811

This CVE relates to vulnerabilities in the Image Signature Verification feature of Cisco NX-OS Software.

What is CVE-2019-1811?

The vulnerability allows a local attacker with administrator-level credentials to install malicious software images on affected devices due to improper verification of software digital signatures during CLI command execution.

The Impact of CVE-2019-1811

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

Technical Details of CVE-2019-1811

The following technical details provide insight into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the improper verification of software digital signatures during the execution of CLI commands.

Affected Systems and Versions

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

Exploitation Mechanism

The attacker needs to be authenticated and possess administrator-level credentials to exploit this vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent exploitation of CVE-2019-1811.

Immediate Steps to Take

Ensure proper access controls and limit administrator-level credentials.
Regularly monitor and audit CLI commands and software image installations.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure software image verification processes.
Train personnel on secure CLI command execution practices.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by Cisco to address this vulnerability.