CVE-2020-3206 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-3206, a vulnerability in Cisco IOS XE Software affecting Catalyst 9800 Series Wireless Controllers. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation details, and mitigation steps.
A vulnerability in the handling of IEEE 802.11w Protected Management Frames (PMFs) of Cisco Catalyst 9800 Series Wireless Controllers running Cisco IOS XE Software could allow an unauthenticated attacker to terminate a valid user connection.
Understanding CVE-2020-3206
This CVE involves a denial of service vulnerability in Cisco IOS XE Software affecting the Catalyst 9800 Series Wireless Controllers.
What is CVE-2020-3206?
The vulnerability allows an unauthenticated attacker in proximity to the affected device to disrupt a valid user connection by exploiting the mishandling of 802.11w PMFs.
The Impact of CVE-2020-3206
- CVSS Base Score: 4.7 (Medium Severity)
- Attack Vector: Adjacent Network
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Availability Impact: Low
- The vulnerability could lead to the termination of a single valid user connection to the affected device.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-3206
This section provides more in-depth technical details about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from the inadequate validation of 802.11w disassociation and deauthentication PMFs received by the affected software.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Product: Cisco IOS XE Software 16.10.1
- Vendor: Cisco
- Affected Version: n/a
Exploitation Mechanism
- An attacker can send a spoofed 802.11w PMF from a valid, authenticated client on a network adjacent to the affected device to exploit the vulnerability.
Mitigation and Prevention
It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent the exploitation of this vulnerability.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor patches and updates promptly.
- Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
- Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch all software and firmware in the network.
- Conduct security training for employees to raise awareness of potential threats.
Patching and Updates
- Refer to the vendor's security advisory for specific patching instructions and updates.