CVE-2021-40124 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client for Windows with Network Access Manager Module Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

Understanding CVE-2021-40124

This CVE concerns a privilege escalation vulnerability in the Network Access Manager (NAM) module of Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client for Windows.

What is CVE-2021-40124?

Affects Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client for Windows
Allows an authenticated local attacker to escalate privileges
Incorrect privilege assignment to scripts executed before user logon
Attacker could execute arbitrary code with SYSTEM privileges

The Impact of CVE-2021-40124

CVSS Base Score: 6.7 (Medium)
Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: High
Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability Impact: High
No user interaction required

Technical Details of CVE-2021-40124

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

Vulnerability in NAM module allows privileged escalation
Incorrect script execution before user logon

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client
Vendor: Cisco
Version: n/a

Exploitation Mechanism

Attacker configures script execution before logon
Successful exploit grants attacker SYSTEM privileges

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to follow to mitigate the vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-provided patches immediately
Monitor systems for any unauthorized access

Long-Term Security Practices

Review and restrict script execution permissions
Conduct regular security trainings for staff
Implement least privilege access policies

Patching and Updates

Regularly update and patch Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client