CVE-2020-3454 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability in the Call Home feature of Cisco NX-OS Software could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to inject arbitrary commands with root privileges.

Understanding CVE-2020-3454

This CVE involves a command injection vulnerability in Cisco NX-OS Software's Call Home feature.

What is CVE-2020-3454?

The vulnerability allows a remote attacker to execute arbitrary commands on the underlying OS by manipulating specific Call Home configuration parameters.

The Impact of CVE-2020-3454

CVSS Base Score: 7.2 (High Severity)
Attack Vector: Network
Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability Impact: High
Privileges Required: High
Scope: Unchanged
Attack Complexity: Low
User Interaction: None

Technical Details of CVE-2020-3454

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw arises from inadequate input validation of Call Home configuration parameters when using HTTP transport.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: Cisco NX-OS Software 5.0(1a)
Vendor: Cisco
Affected Version: n/a

Exploitation Mechanism

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by modifying Call Home configuration parameters on the targeted device.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2020-3454 with these mitigation strategies.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-released patches promptly.
Disable the Call Home feature if not essential.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software and firmware.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Conduct security training for staff to recognize and report suspicious activities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates to mitigate the vulnerability.