CVE-2021-1403 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2021-1403, a vulnerability in Cisco IOS XE Software Web UI that allows remote attackers to conduct WebSocket hijacking attacks and trigger a denial of service condition.
A vulnerability in the web UI feature of Cisco IOS XE Software could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to conduct a cross-site WebSocket hijacking (CSWSH) attack and cause a denial of service (DoS) condition on the affected device.
Understanding CVE-2020-20657
This CVE involves a vulnerability in the web UI feature of Cisco IOS XE Software, potentially enabling a malicious actor to trigger a DoS condition.
What is CVE-2021-1403?
The vulnerability allows an unauthenticated attacker to perform a cross-site WebSocket hijacking attack, leading to a DoS on the target device due to insufficient HTTP protections.
The Impact of CVE-2021-1403
Successful exploitation could permit the attacker to manipulate memory on the affected device, resulting in a forced reload and a DoS situation.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-1403
The technical aspects of this CVE include vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and exploitation mechanisms.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw in the web UI feature of Cisco IOS XE Software exposes devices to CSWSH attacks through crafted links, potentially allowing memory corruption.
Affected Systems and Versions
Cisco IOS XE Software is affected, and the vulnerability applies to all versions.
Exploitation Mechanism
An attacker can exploit the vulnerability by convincing a web UI user to follow a malicious link, enabling memory corruption and triggering a DoS condition.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2021-1403, immediate actions, long-term security practices, and the importance of patching and updates are crucial.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users should ensure awareness of this vulnerability, monitor for any potential exploitation, and apply vendor-supplied patches promptly.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implementing strong network security measures, regular security training, and monitoring can help mitigate such vulnerabilities in the long term.
Patching and Updates
Regularly checking for security updates from Cisco, and promptly applying patches to affected devices is essential for protecting against CVE-2021-1403.