CVE-2020-3566 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-3566, a high-severity vulnerability in Cisco IOS XR Software allowing remote attackers to exhaust process memory. Find mitigation steps and long-term security practices here.
A vulnerability in the Distance Vector Multicast Routing Protocol (DVMRP) feature of Cisco IOS XR Software could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to exhaust process memory of an affected device. The vulnerability is due to insufficient queue management for Internet Group Management Protocol (IGMP) packets.
Understanding CVE-2020-3566
This CVE involves a memory exhaustion vulnerability in Cisco IOS XR Software due to inadequate queue management for IGMP packets.
What is CVE-2020-3566?
The vulnerability in the Distance Vector Multicast Routing Protocol (DVMRP) feature of Cisco IOS XR Software allows a remote attacker to exhaust process memory by sending crafted IGMP traffic.
The Impact of CVE-2020-3566
- CVSS Base Score: 8.6 (High Severity)
- Attack Vector: Network
- Availability Impact: High
- An attacker can destabilize processes, including routing protocols, leading to potential service disruptions.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-3566
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in Cisco IOS XR Software allows remote attackers to exhaust process memory by exploiting insufficient queue management for IGMP packets.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Product: Cisco IOS XR Software
- Vendor: Cisco
- Affected Version: Not applicable (n/a)
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Privileges Required: None
- Scope: Changed
- The attacker can exploit the vulnerability by sending crafted IGMP traffic to the affected device.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2020-3566, follow these mitigation and prevention strategies:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Implement a mitigation strategy suitable for your environment.
- Monitor network traffic for any signs of exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch affected systems.
- Conduct security assessments to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.
Patching and Updates
- Cisco will release software updates to fix the vulnerability.