CVE-2020-3241 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in the orchestration tasks of Cisco UCS Director could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to perform a path traversal attack on an affected device.

Understanding CVE-2020-3241

This CVE involves a path traversal vulnerability in Cisco UCS Director, potentially enabling attackers to overwrite arbitrary files on affected devices.

What is CVE-2020-3241?

The vulnerability arises from inadequate validation of user input on the web-based management interface, allowing attackers to manipulate task configurations.

The Impact of CVE-2020-3241

CVSS Base Score: 6.5 (Medium Severity)
Attack Vector: Network
Attack Complexity: Low
Privileges Required: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High

Technical Details of CVE-2020-3241

This section provides a deeper dive into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in Cisco UCS Director allows attackers to exploit insufficient input validation, leading to unauthorized file system access and potential data manipulation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: Cisco Unified Computing System (Management Software)
Affected Version: Not Applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by creating tasks with specific configurations, enabling them to overwrite files on the targeted device.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-3241 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-provided patches or updates promptly.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.
Restrict access to the management interface to authorized personnel only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and systems.
Conduct security training for staff to recognize and respond to potential threats.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential breaches.
Employ intrusion detection and prevention systems.

Patching and Updates

Cisco may release patches or updates to address this vulnerability. Stay informed through official advisories and apply patches as soon as they are available.