CVE-2020-3401 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in the web-based management interface of Cisco SD-WAN vManage Software could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to conduct path traversal attacks and obtain read access to sensitive files on an affected system.

Understanding CVE-2020-3401

This CVE involves a path traversal vulnerability in Cisco SD-WAN vManage Software.

What is CVE-2020-3401?

The vulnerability in Cisco SD-WAN vManage Software allows an authenticated remote attacker to perform path traversal attacks, potentially accessing sensitive files on the system.

The Impact of CVE-2020-3401

CVSS Base Score: 6.5 (Medium Severity)
Confidentiality Impact: High
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: Low
Exploitation: An attacker could view arbitrary files on the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-3401

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is a result of insufficient validation of HTTP requests, allowing attackers to send crafted requests with directory traversal sequences.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: Cisco SD-WAN vManage
Affected Vendor: Cisco
Affected Version: n/a

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability by sending malicious HTTP requests containing directory traversal characters.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-3401 is crucial for maintaining security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-released patches promptly.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.
Restrict access to the management interface.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to address vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Cisco.
Implement patches as soon as they are available.