CVE-2021-31368 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2021-31368, a vulnerability in Juniper Networks JUNOS OS allowing attackers to cause high CPU load and device unresponsiveness. Find out the impacted systems, exploitation details, and mitigation steps.
An Uncontrolled Resource Consumption vulnerability in the kernel of Juniper Networks JUNOS OS allows an unauthenticated network-based attacker to cause 100% CPU load and the device to become unresponsive by sending a flood of traffic to the out-of-band management ethernet port. This issue affects Juniper Networks JUNOS OS on EX2300 Series, EX3400 Series, and ACX710.
Understanding CVE-2021-31368
This CVE highlights a vulnerability in Juniper Networks JUNOS OS that can lead to a Denial of Service (DoS) condition when an attacker floods the out-of-band management port.
What is CVE-2021-31368?
The vulnerability allows unauthenticated attackers to overload the device with traffic, causing high CPU usage and device unresponsiveness. An attacker can trigger a sustained DoS condition, affecting the kernel and netisr processes.
The Impact of CVE-2021-31368
The impact includes 100% CPU load and device unresponsiveness when flooded with traffic, potentially leading to a sustained DoS condition.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-31368
This section covers key technical details of the CVE to help understand its nature and implications.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability results in uncontrolled resource consumption, ultimately leading to a DoS condition by flooding the out-of-band management ethernet port.
Affected Systems and Versions
Juniper Networks JUNOS OS versions prior to 20.4R2 are affected, specifically impacting EX2300 Series, EX3400 Series, and ACX710.
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by sending a flood of traffic to the out-of-band management ethernet port, causing the device to become unresponsive.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2021-31368, users and administrators can take certain steps to mitigate risks and prevent exploitation.
Immediate Steps to Take
Update to the fixed software releases, including versions 18.1R3-S13, 18.3R3-S5, 18.4R2-S8, and subsequent releases provided by Juniper Networks.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implement network segmentation, access controls, and monitoring to detect and prevent unauthorized access and malicious traffic.
Patching and Updates
Regularly apply security patches and updates provided by the vendor to address known vulnerabilities and improve overall security posture.