CVE-2020-5939 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability in BIG-IP Virtual Edition (VE) systems may lead to a denial of service (DoS) condition.

Understanding CVE-2020-5939

This CVE involves a specific issue affecting BIG-IP Virtual Edition (VE) systems running on VMware.

What is CVE-2020-5939?

In versions 16.0.0-16.0.0.1, 15.1.0-15.1.0.3, 15.0.0-15.0.1.3, 14.1.0-14.1.2.6, and 13.1.0-13.1.3.4, systems with certain configurations may fail, causing the Traffic Management Microkernel (TMM) to be unable to transmit traffic.

The Impact of CVE-2020-5939

The vulnerability can result in a DoS condition, potentially disrupting network traffic and services.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-5939

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

Vulnerability Description

The issue affects BIG-IP Virtual Edition (VE) systems with specific configurations, leading to TMM being unable to transmit traffic.

Affected Systems and Versions

BIG-IP Virtual Edition (VE) versions 16.0.0-16.0.0.1, 15.1.0-15.1.0.3, 15.0.0-15.0.1.3, 14.1.0-14.1.2.6, 13.1.0-13.1.3.4

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability occurs when systems are running on VMware with an Intel-based 85299 Network Interface Controller (NIC) card and Single Root I/O Virtualization (SR-IOV) enabled on vSphere.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-5939 is crucial to maintain network stability and security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable SR-IOV on vSphere for affected systems
Monitor network traffic for any anomalies

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch BIG-IP Virtual Edition (VE) systems
Implement network segmentation and access controls

Patching and Updates

Apply vendor-recommended patches and updates to address the vulnerability.