CVE-2020-3563 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2020-3563, a high-severity vulnerability in Cisco Firepower Threat Defense Software allowing remote attackers to trigger a denial of service attack by flooding the system with TCP packets.
A vulnerability in the packet processing functionality of Cisco Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) Software could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to cause a denial of service (DoS) condition on an affected device. The vulnerability is due to inefficient memory management, allowing an attacker to exhaust system memory by sending a large number of TCP packets.
Understanding CVE-2020-3563
This CVE identifies a specific vulnerability in Cisco Firepower Threat Defense Software that can lead to a denial of service attack.
What is CVE-2020-3563?
The vulnerability in Cisco Firepower Threat Defense Software enables an attacker to trigger a DoS condition by overwhelming the system with TCP packets, exploiting inefficient memory management.
The Impact of CVE-2020-3563
The vulnerability poses a high risk, with a CVSS base score of 8.6, potentially causing affected devices to reload unexpectedly due to memory exhaustion.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-3563
Cisco Firepower Threat Defense Software TCP Flood Denial of Service Vulnerability
Vulnerability Description
- The flaw allows unauthenticated remote attackers to initiate a DoS attack by flooding the system with TCP packets.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Cisco Firepower Threat Defense Software
- Vendor: Cisco
- Affected Version: n/a
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Attack Vector: Network
- Availability Impact: High
- Privileges Required: None
- Scope: Changed
- No user interaction required
Mitigation and Prevention
Taking immediate steps and implementing long-term security practices are crucial to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2020-3563.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Monitor network traffic for any unusual TCP packet activity.
- Apply vendor-provided patches or workarounds promptly.
- Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate weaknesses.
- Educate users and IT staff on best security practices to prevent and respond to cyber threats.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories from Cisco and apply recommended patches as soon as they are available.