CVE-2020-27721 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-27721 affecting BIG-IP GTM & DNS versions, leading to a DoS risk. Find mitigation steps and long-term security practices to safeguard systems.
A vulnerability in BIG-IP GTM & DNS versions could lead to a denial of service (DoS) attack.
Understanding CVE-2020-27721
This CVE involves a specific issue in BIG-IP DNS / BIG-IP LTM GSLB deployments that may cause the BIG-IP DNS system to cease using a BIG-IP LTM virtual server for DNS responses.
What is CVE-2020-27721?
The vulnerability affects various versions of BIG-IP GTM & DNS, potentially resulting in a DoS attack under certain conditions.
The Impact of CVE-2020-27721
The vulnerability could be exploited to disrupt services, leading to a DoS condition and impacting the availability of the affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-27721
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
In the specified versions of BIG-IP GTM & DNS, a flaw exists that may cause the BIG-IP DNS system to stop utilizing a BIG-IP LTM virtual server for DNS responses.
Affected Systems and Versions
- BIG-IP GTM & DNS versions 16.0.0-16.0.0.1
- BIG-IP GTM & DNS versions 15.1.0-15.1.1
- BIG-IP GTM & DNS versions 14.1.0-14.1.3
- BIG-IP GTM & DNS versions 13.1.0-13.1.3.5
- BIG-IP GTM & DNS versions 12.1.0-12.1.5.2
- BIG-IP GTM & DNS versions 11.6.1-11.6.5.2
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker under specific circumstances to disrupt the DNS responses from the BIG-IP LTM virtual server.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2020-27721 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor-supplied patches or updates promptly to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor network traffic for any signs of exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch all software and systems to prevent future vulnerabilities.
- Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Patching and Updates
- F5 provides patches and updates to address the vulnerability. Ensure timely application of these fixes to secure the affected systems.