CVE-2021-1618 : Security Advisory and Response

Multiple vulnerabilities in the web-based management interface of Cisco Intersight Virtual Appliance could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to conduct a path traversal or command injection attack on an affected system.

Understanding CVE-2021-1618

Cisco Intersight Virtual Appliance Vulnerabilities

What is CVE-2021-1618?

CVE-2021-1618 refers to multiple vulnerabilities in Cisco Intersight Virtual Appliance that could be exploited by an authenticated, remote attacker to execute arbitrary commands or read and write files on the affected system.

The Impact of CVE-2021-1618

With a CVSS base score of 6.5, CVE-2021-1618 poses a medium severity risk. The vulnerabilities allow high confidentiality and integrity impact, requiring high privileges for exploitation with no user interaction needed.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-1618

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerabilities are a result of insufficient input validation in the web-based management interface, leading to path traversal and command injection attacks. Attackers could execute commands or manipulate files using crafted input, potentially gaining root access.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected system is the Cisco Intersight Virtual Appliance, and all versions are susceptible to these vulnerabilities.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit these vulnerabilities by utilizing the web-based management interface to execute commands or upload altered files, leading to unauthorized access and control over the system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-1618, users should apply the patches provided by Cisco promptly. Additionally, restrict network access to the management interface to authorized personnel only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement robust input validation mechanisms and conduct regular security assessments to detect and remediate similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security advisories from Cisco and apply all relevant patches and updates to ensure the security of the Cisco Intersight Virtual Appliance.