CVE-2023-20098 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE-2023-20098 was published by Cisco on May 9, 2023. It pertains to a vulnerability found in the CLI of Cisco SDWAN vManage Software that could allow an authenticated, local attacker to delete arbitrary files.

Understanding CVE-2023-20098

This section will delve into the details of what CVE-2023-20098 is about and the impact it can have.

What is CVE-2023-20098?

CVE-2023-20098 is a vulnerability in the CLI of Cisco SDWAN vManage Software. It arises due to improper filtering of directory traversal character sequences within system commands. An attacker with administrative privileges could exploit this vulnerability by running a system command containing directory traversal character sequences to target an arbitrary file, enabling them to delete files from the system, including those owned by root.

The Impact of CVE-2023-20098

The impact of CVE-2023-20098 is significant as it allows an attacker to delete arbitrary files on the affected system, potentially leading to data loss, system disruption, and security breaches.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-20098

In this section, we will explore the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism of CVE-2023-20098.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Cisco SDWAN vManage Software allows an attacker to delete arbitrary files through improper filtering of directory traversal character sequences within system commands.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected product is Cisco SD-WAN vManage, specifically versions 20.9.1 and 20.9.2.

Exploitation Mechanism

An authenticated, local attacker with administrative privileges can exploit this vulnerability by running a system command containing directory traversal character sequences to target and delete arbitrary files on the system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Understanding how to mitigate and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2023-20098 is crucial for maintaining system security and integrity.

Immediate Steps to Take

It is recommended to apply vendor-provided patches or updates to address the vulnerability promptly. Additionally, limiting user privileges and access can help reduce the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing least privilege access, regularly monitoring system activity, and conducting security assessments can contribute to long-term security practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Staying informed about security advisories from Cisco and promptly applying patches and updates to the affected systems can mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2023-20098.