CVE-2020-3196 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL)/Transport Layer Security (TLS) handler of Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) Software and Cisco Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) Software could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to exhaust memory resources on the affected device, leading to a denial of service (DoS) condition.

Understanding CVE-2020-3196

This CVE involves a vulnerability in SSL/TLS handling in Cisco ASA and FTD Software.

What is CVE-2020-3196?

The vulnerability allows a remote attacker to exhaust memory resources on the device, causing a DoS condition due to improper resource management for inbound SSL/TLS connections.

The Impact of CVE-2020-3196

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Network
Availability Impact: High
Base Score: 8.6 (High Severity)
Scope: Changed
No Confidentiality or Integrity Impact
No Privileges Required
No User Interaction

Technical Details of CVE-2020-3196

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper resource management for inbound SSL/TLS connections, allowing attackers to exhaust memory resources on the affected device.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) Software
Vendor: Cisco
Version: Not Applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by establishing multiple SSL/TLS connections with specific conditions to the affected device.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent exploitation of CVE-2020-3196.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-provided patches or updates promptly.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious SSL/TLS connections.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and firmware.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Cisco has released patches to address this vulnerability.