CVE-2021-34708 : Security Advisory and Response

Multiple vulnerabilities were found in the image verification checks of Cisco Network Convergence System (NCS) 540 Series Routers running Cisco IOS XR NCS540L software images, and Cisco IOS XR Software for Cisco 8000 Series Routers. These vulnerabilities could allow an authenticated, local attacker to execute arbitrary code on the underlying operating system. The Cisco Product Security Incident Response Team has not detected any public announcements or malicious exploitation of these vulnerabilities.

Understanding CVE-2021-34708

This section provides insights into the impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies related to the CVE-2021-34708.

What is CVE-2021-34708?

The CVE-2021-34708 concerns multiple vulnerabilities in image verification checks of Cisco NCS 540 Series Routers and Cisco 8000 Series Routers' software. These vulnerabilities could be exploited by local, authenticated attackers to run arbitrary code on the OS.

The Impact of CVE-2021-34708

With a CVSS base score of 6.0, these vulnerabilities pose a medium-severity threat. Attackers with high privileges could compromise confidentiality and integrity, leading to arbitrary code execution on the affected operating systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-34708

This section delves into the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and exploitation mechanisms.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerabilities in image verification checks of Cisco NCS 540 Series Routers and Cisco 8000 Series Routers' software allow local attackers to execute arbitrary code on the underlying OS.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected products include Cisco IOS XR Software for Cisco 8000 Series Routers and NCS 540 Series Routers running Cisco IOS XR NCS540L software images.

Exploitation Mechanism

Authenticated attackers can exploit these vulnerabilities to execute arbitrary code on the affected systems.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines the immediate steps to take and long-term security practices to enhance protection against CVE-2021-34708.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to apply security updates provided by Cisco to fix the vulnerabilities and prevent potential exploitation by attackers.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing network segmentation, enforcing the principle of least privilege, and conducting regular security assessments can help improve the overall security posture.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitor for security advisories from Cisco and promptly apply patches to address any known vulnerabilities and enhance the security of the network infrastructure.