CVE-2021-1268 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2021-1268, a vulnerability in the IPv6 protocol handling of Cisco IOS XR Software allowing a denial of service attack. Understand the impact, affected systems, exploitation, and mitigation.
A vulnerability in the IPv6 protocol handling of the management interfaces of Cisco IOS XR Software could allow an unauthenticated, adjacent attacker to cause an IPv6 flood on the management interface network of an affected device.
Understanding CVE-2021-1268
This CVE-2021-1268 identifies a vulnerability in Cisco IOS XR Software that could potentially lead to a denial of service attack through an IPv6 flood.
What is CVE-2021-1268?
The vulnerability allows an attacker to inject IPv6 packets with specific characteristics, causing excessive network traffic leading to a DoS condition. This is due to incorrect forwarding of IPv6 packets with a multicast group address destination.
The Impact of CVE-2021-1268
If exploited, this vulnerability could result in network degradation or a complete denial of service condition, depending on the number of affected Cisco IOS XR Software nodes on the network.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-1268
This section provides more detailed technical information regarding the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in the IPv6 handling of Cisco IOS XR Software management interfaces allows for the injection of IPv6 packets, causing an IPv6 flood and potential network disruption.
Affected Systems and Versions
The affected product is Cisco IOS XR Software, and all versions are susceptible to this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
To exploit this vulnerability, an unauthenticated attacker needs to connect to the network as the management interfaces and inject IPv6 packets with specific characteristics.
Mitigation and Prevention
Understanding the steps to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2021-1268 vulnerability is crucial.
Immediate Steps to Take
It is recommended to apply relevant patches and updates provided by Cisco to address this vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implementing network segmentation, access controls, and regularly updating security measures can help prevent such vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Regularly check for updates and security advisories from Cisco to ensure your systems are protected from known vulnerabilities.