CVE-2021-34729 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability in the CLI of Cisco IOS XE SD-WAN Software and Cisco IOS XE Software could allow an authenticated, local attacker to execute arbitrary commands with elevated privileges on an affected device.

Understanding CVE-2021-34729

This CVE-2021-34729 vulnerability affects Cisco IOS XE SD-WAN Software, allowing attackers to run arbitrary commands with elevated privileges through the CLI.

What is CVE-2021-34729?

The vulnerability in Cisco IOS XE SD-WAN Software and Cisco IOS XE Software results from insufficient validation of arguments in certain CLI commands. An attacker with valid credentials could exploit this to execute arbitrary commands with elevated privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2021-34729

With a base score of 6.7, this vulnerability has a medium severity level and a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The attacker needs high privileges to successfully exploit the vulnerability.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-34729

This section provides detailed technical information about the CVE-2021-34729 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows authenticated local attackers to execute arbitrary commands with elevated privileges on the affected device by manipulating CLI commands.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected product is Cisco IOS XE SD-WAN Software with all versions being impacted.

Exploitation Mechanism

By injecting malicious input into an argument of a specific CLI command, an attacker can exploit this vulnerability to run unauthorized commands with elevated privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

To protect your system from CVE-2021-34729, certain immediate and long-term security measures need to be implemented.

Immediate Steps to Take

Cisco recommends ensuring strict access control policies and monitoring CLI commands for any suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update your systems and implement security patches provided by Cisco for addressing this vulnerability.

Patching and Updates

Keep your systems up to date with the latest patches and security updates released by Cisco to help prevent any exploitation of this vulnerability.