CVE-2020-5909 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

NGINX Controller versions 3.0.0-3.5.0, 2.0.0-2.9.0, and 1.0.1 are affected by a vulnerability that allows for server TLS certificate verification bypass when fetching the agent installer.

Understanding CVE-2020-5909

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in NGINX Controller that could be exploited for a Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attack.

What is CVE-2020-5909?

The vulnerability in NGINX Controller versions 3.0.0-3.5.0, 2.0.0-2.9.0, and 1.0.1 enables attackers to intercept communication by bypassing server TLS certificate verification.

The Impact of CVE-2020-5909

This vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data transmitted between NGINX Controller components, potentially compromising the integrity and confidentiality of the communication.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-5909

NGINX Controller vulnerability details:

Vulnerability Description

When users execute the command to retrieve the agent installer in the NGINX Controller UI, the server TLS certificate is not properly validated, exposing the communication to potential interception.

Affected Systems and Versions

NGINX Controller versions 3.0.0-3.5.0
NGINX Controller versions 2.0.0-2.9.0
NGINX Controller version 1.0.1

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows threat actors to perform MITM attacks by intercepting traffic between NGINX Controller components due to the lack of server TLS certificate validation.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2020-5909:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update NGINX Controller to a patched version that addresses the TLS certificate verification issue.
Implement network monitoring to detect any suspicious activities indicating a potential MITM attack.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update security configurations to prevent similar vulnerabilities.
Educate users on secure practices to mitigate the risk of MITM attacks.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by NGINX Controller promptly to ensure the vulnerability is mitigated and the system is secure.