CVE-2021-0272 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2021-0272, a kernel memory leak vulnerability in Junos OS on QFX10002 series devices. Understand the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
A kernel memory leak in QFX10002-32Q, QFX10002-60C, QFX10002-72Q, QFX10008, and QFX10016 devices' Flexible PIC Concentrators on Juniper Networks Junos OS allows an attacker to send genuine packets, causing a Denial of Service (DoS) on the device. Impacted devices may crash and restart or experience degraded traffic until the attack ceases. The issue affects various Junos OS versions.
Understanding CVE-2021-0272
In EVPN-VXLAN scenarios, the receipt of specific genuine packets by an adjacent attacker triggers a kernel memory leak in FPC.
What is CVE-2021-0272?
A kernel memory leak vulnerability in Junos OS allows attackers to exploit certain devices, leading to a Denial of Service (DoS) condition.
The Impact of CVE-2021-0272
The vulnerability can result in device crashes, degraded traffic, and a sustained DoS condition until a reboot is performed. Devices may show kernel memory issues, affecting specific Junos OS versions.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-0272
The vulnerability affects Juniper Networks' Junos OS on QFX10002 series devices with specific software versions. The attack vector is through an adjacent network, with a low attack complexity and high availability impact.
Vulnerability Description
This vulnerability allows an adjacent attacker to exploit the device's Flexible PIC Concentrators, causing a kernel memory leak and subsequent DoS condition.
Affected Systems and Versions
Impacted systems include QFX10002-32Q, QFX10002-60C, QFX10002-72Q, QFX10008, and QFX10016 running specific Junos OS versions.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can send genuine packets to trigger the vulnerability, resulting in a sustained DoS condition until the kernel memory is cleared.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2021-0272, ensure your Junos OS is updated to the patched software releases specified by Juniper Networks.
Immediate Steps to Take
Monitor your devices for kernel memory issues and apply the necessary patches to prevent exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
Regularly update your Junos OS to the latest releases to safeguard against known vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Juniper Networks has released software updates such as 17.3R3-S9, 17.4R3-S2, 18.1R3-S11, and subsequent releases to mitigate this specific vulnerability.