CVE-2021-1383 : Security Advisory and Response

This article discusses a critical vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-1383 in Cisco IOS XE SD-WAN Software that could potentially allow an authenticated attacker to gain root privileges on the underlying operating system.

Understanding CVE-2021-1383

This section provides an overview of the vulnerability, its impact, affected systems, exploitation details, as well as mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2021-1383?

The CVE-2021-1383 vulnerability arises from multiple weaknesses in the CLI of Cisco IOS XE SD-WAN Software. It permits an authenticated local attacker to penetrate the operating system with root access by exploiting inadequate input validation in specific CLI commands.

The Impact of CVE-2021-1383

The exploitation of this vulnerability can enable the attacker to achieve root privileges on the underlying operating system. However, the attacker must have administrative user privileges to execute the malicious commands successfully.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-1383

This section delves deeper into the technical aspects of the vulnerability, outlining the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

Insufficient input validation of certain CLI commands in Cisco IOS XE SD-WAN Software leads to this vulnerability, enabling authenticated attackers to escalate privileges to root level.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts Cisco IOS XE Software. However, specific version details are not available.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit CVE-2021-1383, an authenticated attacker must submit crafted input to the CLI after gaining administrative access to the device.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section focuses on the necessary steps to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2021-1383, ensuring enhanced cybersecurity measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Promptly update affected systems and restrict administrative access to mitigate the vulnerability's exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Enforce robust access control policies, conduct regular security audits, and educate users on secure CLI practices to prevent unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Cisco and apply patches as soon as they are released to protect systems from potential exploits.