CVE-2020-5946 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

In BIG-IP Advanced WAF and FPS versions 16.0.0-16.0.0.1, 15.1.0-15.1.0.5, and 14.1.0-14.1.2.7, certain client-side alerts can trigger a Denial-of-Service (DoS) by causing the Traffic Management Microkernel (TMM) to restart.

Understanding CVE-2020-5946

This CVE affects BIG-IP Advanced WAF and FPS versions 16.0.0-16.0.0.1, 15.1.0-15.1.0.5, and 14.1.0-14.1.2.7.

What is CVE-2020-5946?

Under specific conditions, malformed client-side alerts sent to the BIG-IP virtual server with DataSafe can lead to a DoS attack.

The Impact of CVE-2020-5946

The vulnerability can result in a DoS by causing the TMM to restart, disrupting services and potentially leading to service unavailability.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-5946

This section provides detailed technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

Certain client-side alerts sent to the BIG-IP virtual server with DataSafe can trigger a TMM restart, causing a DoS.

Affected Systems and Versions

BIG-IP Advanced WAF and FPS versions 16.0.0-16.0.0.1
BIG-IP Advanced WAF and FPS versions 15.1.0-15.1.0.5
BIG-IP Advanced WAF and FPS versions 14.1.0-14.1.2.7

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited by sending specific format client-side alerts to the affected BIG-IP virtual server, leading to TMM restart and subsequent DoS.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2020-5946 with the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-provided patches or updates promptly.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.
Implement firewall rules to restrict access to vulnerable systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address weaknesses.
Educate users on safe computing practices to prevent exploitation of vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of patches and updates provided by the vendor to address the CVE.