CVE-2020-3527 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2020-3527, a high-severity vulnerability in Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series Switches allowing remote attackers to crash the device by sending oversized frames.
A vulnerability in the Polaris kernel of Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series Switches could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to crash the device due to insufficient packet size validation.
Understanding CVE-2020-3527
This CVE involves a denial of service vulnerability in Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series Switches caused by sending oversized frames to the management interface.
What is CVE-2020-3527?
The vulnerability allows attackers to crash the device by exploiting insufficient packet size validation, leading to a full device crash.
The Impact of CVE-2020-3527
- CVSS Base Score: 8.6 (High Severity)
- Attack Vector: Network
- Availability Impact: High
- Attackers can crash the device fully before automatic recovery.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-3527
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
- The flaw resides in the Polaris kernel of Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series Switches.
- Attackers can exploit this by sending jumbo frames or frames larger than the configured MTU size to the management interface.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Product: Cisco IOS XE Software
- Vendor: Cisco
- Affected Version: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attackers can crash the device by sending oversized frames, exploiting the insufficient packet size validation.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protect your systems from CVE-2020-3527 with these mitigation strategies.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor patches and updates promptly.
- Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
- Monitor network traffic for any signs of exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch all network devices.
- Conduct security training for staff to recognize and respond to potential threats.
- Implement strong access controls and authentication mechanisms.
- Stay informed about security advisories from vendors.
- Consider network intrusion detection systems for enhanced security.
Patching and Updates
- Check for and apply patches provided by Cisco to address the vulnerability.