CVE-2020-3428 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2020-3428, a high-severity vulnerability in Cisco IOS XE Wireless Controller Software allowing DoS attacks. Find mitigation steps and preventive measures here.
A vulnerability in the WLAN Local Profiling feature of Cisco IOS XE Wireless Controller Software for the Cisco Catalyst 9000 Family could allow an unauthenticated, adjacent attacker to cause a denial of service (DoS) condition on an affected device.
Understanding CVE-2020-3428
This CVE involves a vulnerability in Cisco IOS XE Wireless Controller Software that could lead to a DoS attack.
What is CVE-2020-3428?
The vulnerability arises from incorrect parsing of HTTP packets during HTTP-based endpoint device classifications, enabling an attacker to trigger a DoS condition by sending a crafted HTTP packet.
The Impact of CVE-2020-3428
The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 7.4 (High severity) with a high impact on availability. Successful exploitation could result in affected devices rebooting, causing a DoS situation.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-3428
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in WLAN Local Profiling feature of Cisco IOS XE Wireless Controller Software allows adjacent attackers to exploit HTTP packet parsing flaws, leading to DoS attacks.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Cisco IOS XE Software
- Vendor: Cisco
- Version: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by sending a specially crafted HTTP packet to the affected device, causing it to reboot and resulting in a DoS condition.
Mitigation and Prevention
Steps to address and prevent the CVE-2020-3428 vulnerability.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor-provided patches or 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.
- Conduct security training for employees to recognize and report potential security threats.
- Implement strong access controls and authentication mechanisms.
- Perform regular security audits and assessments.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that the affected Cisco IOS XE Wireless Controller Software is updated with the latest patches to mitigate the vulnerability.