CVE-2019-1953 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2019-1953, a vulnerability in Cisco Enterprise NFV Infrastructure Software allowing unauthorized access to admin passwords. Find mitigation steps and update recommendations.
Cisco Enterprise NFV Infrastructure Software Password Recovery Vulnerability
Understanding CVE-2019-1953
This CVE involves a security flaw in the Cisco Enterprise NFV Infrastructure Software (NFVIS) web portal that could allow unauthorized access to an authenticated remote attacker, potentially exposing a password in plaintext.
What is CVE-2019-1953?
The vulnerability arises when the admin password is inaccurately logged during the initial login to the web portal after the user is prompted to change the default password. Subsequent password changes are not recorded, and other accounts are unaffected. To exploit this flaw, an attacker needs a valid user account and the admin clear text password to access the compromised system.
The Impact of CVE-2019-1953
The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 6.5, indicating a medium severity issue with high confidentiality impact but no integrity or availability impact. The attack complexity is low, requiring low privileges and no user interaction.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-1953
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in the web portal of Cisco Enterprise NFV Infrastructure Software allows an authenticated remote attacker to view a password in clear text due to incorrect logging of the admin password.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Cisco Enterprise NFV Infrastructure Software
- Vendor: Cisco
- Versions Affected: Less than 3.9.1 (unspecified version type)
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attacker needs a valid user account
- Admin clear text password is required for unauthorized access
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Cisco recommends users to apply the necessary updates provided by the vendor
- Monitor systems for any unauthorized access or unusual activities
Long-Term Security Practices
- Enforce strong password policies and regular password changes
- Implement multi-factor authentication for enhanced security
Patching and Updates
- Ensure the NFVIS software is updated to version 3.9.1 or higher to mitigate the vulnerability