CVE-2020-5878 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE involves a vulnerability in BIG-IP Virtual Edition (VE) versions 15.1.0-15.1.0.1, 15.0.0-15.0.1.1, and 14.1.0-14.1.2.3, where Traffic Management Microkernel (TMM) may restart due to processing unusual IP traffic.

Understanding CVE-2020-5878

This CVE identifies a Denial of Service (DoS) vulnerability affecting BIG-IP VE.

What is CVE-2020-5878?

The vulnerability in BIG-IP VE versions 15.1.0-15.1.0.1, 15.0.0-15.0.1.1, and 14.1.0-14.1.2.3 can lead to TMM restarts when handling atypical IP traffic.

The Impact of CVE-2020-5878

The vulnerability can result in service disruption and potential downtime for systems running the affected versions of BIG-IP VE.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-5878

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The issue occurs in BIG-IP VE versions 15.1.0-15.1.0.1, 15.0.0-15.0.1.1, and 14.1.0-14.1.2.3, causing TMM to restart during the processing of unusual IP traffic.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: BIG-IP VE
Versions: 15.1.0-15.1.0.1, 15.0.0-15.0.1.1, 14.1.0-14.1.2.3

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by sending specially crafted IP traffic to systems running the affected versions, triggering TMM restarts.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-5878 is crucial to ensure operational continuity and security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-supplied patches or updates promptly to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor network traffic for any signs of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch systems to address known vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to potential threats.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from the vendor.
Keep systems up to date with the latest patches and security fixes.