CVE-2020-3338 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2020-3338, a vulnerability in Cisco NX-OS Software allowing a DoS attack. Find out affected systems, exploitation details, and mitigation steps.
A vulnerability in the Protocol Independent Multicast (PIM) feature for IPv6 networks (PIM6) of Cisco NX-OS Software could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to cause a denial of service (DoS) condition on an affected device.
Understanding CVE-2020-3338
This CVE involves a vulnerability in Cisco NX-OS Software that could lead to a DoS attack on affected devices.
What is CVE-2020-3338?
The vulnerability in the Protocol Independent Multicast (PIM) feature for IPv6 networks (PIM6) of Cisco NX-OS Software allows an attacker to trigger a DoS condition by exploiting improper error handling in processing inbound PIM6 packets.
The Impact of CVE-2020-3338
The vulnerability could result in a DoS condition on affected devices due to a memory leak in the PIM6 application caused by crafted PIM6 packets.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-3338
This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from improper error handling in processing inbound PIM6 packets, leading to a memory leak in the PIM6 application.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Cisco NX-OS Software 5.2(1)
- Vendor: Cisco
- Version: n/a
Exploitation Mechanism
- An unauthenticated, remote attacker can exploit the vulnerability by sending crafted PIM6 packets to the affected device.
- Successful exploitation can cause the PIM6 application to leak system memory, eventually leading to a DoS condition.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2020-3338 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor-provided patches or updates to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor network traffic for any signs of exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities.
- Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Patching and Updates
- Refer to the vendor advisory for specific patch details and instructions on addressing the vulnerability.