CVE-2020-5918 : Security Advisory and Response

In BIG-IP versions 15.1.0-15.1.0.4, 15.0.0-15.0.1.3, 14.1.0-14.1.2.3, 13.1.0-13.1.3.3, 12.1.0-12.1.5.1, and 11.6.1-11.6.5.1, a vulnerability in the Traffic Management Microkernel (TMM) can lead to denial of service (DoS) when processing Stream Control Transmission Protocol (SCTP) traffic under high volume.

Understanding CVE-2020-5918

This CVE identifies a specific vulnerability in the BIG-IP software that can result in TMM becoming unresponsive when handling SCTP traffic.

What is CVE-2020-5918?

The vulnerability affects the Traffic Management Microkernel (TMM) in BIG-IP versions 11.6.1 to 15.1.0.4, causing it to stop responding during the processing of SCTP traffic, particularly under high traffic loads.

The Impact of CVE-2020-5918

The vulnerability can be exploited to trigger a denial of service condition, potentially disrupting network traffic and services.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-5918

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

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises in the TMM component of BIG-IP software due to the processing of SCTP traffic, leading to TMM unresponsiveness.

Affected Systems and Versions

BIG-IP versions 15.1.0-15.1.0.4
BIG-IP versions 15.0.0-15.0.1.3
BIG-IP versions 14.1.0-14.1.2.3
BIG-IP versions 13.1.0-13.1.3.3
BIG-IP versions 12.1.0-12.1.5.1
BIG-IP versions 11.6.1-11.6.5.1

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is triggered by sending SCTP traffic to a virtual server configured with an SCTP profile, causing TMM to stop responding.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-5918, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the necessary patches provided by the vendor.
Monitor network traffic for any unusual patterns that could indicate exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch BIG-IP software to prevent known vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that you regularly check for updates and patches from the vendor to address security vulnerabilities promptly.