CVE-2020-3465 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2020-3465, a high-severity vulnerability in Cisco IOS XE Software allowing device reload by handling Ethernet frames incorrectly. Find mitigation steps here.
A vulnerability in Cisco IOS XE Software could allow an unauthenticated, adjacent attacker to cause a device to reload. The vulnerability is due to incorrect handling of certain valid Ethernet frames, potentially leading to a denial of service (DoS) condition.
Understanding CVE-2020-3465
This CVE involves a denial of service vulnerability in Cisco IOS XE Software.
What is CVE-2020-3465?
The vulnerability in Cisco IOS XE Software allows an unauthenticated attacker to trigger a device reload by sending specific Ethernet frames onto the network segment.
The Impact of CVE-2020-3465
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Attack Vector: Adjacent Network
- Availability Impact: High
- Base Score: 7.4 (High Severity)
- Scope: Changed
- Successful exploitation can lead to a denial of service condition.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-3465
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from mishandling valid Ethernet frames, allowing an attacker to force a device reload.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Product: Cisco IOS XE Software 16.8.1
- Vendor: Cisco
- Affected Version: n/a
Exploitation Mechanism
- An unauthenticated attacker sends specific Ethernet frames to the network segment.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protect your systems from CVE-2020-3465 with these steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor-provided patches promptly.
- Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch all software and firmware.
- Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
- Conduct regular security assessments and audits.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories from Cisco.