CVE-2024-21597 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE-2024-21597 article provides detailed information about a vulnerability in Juniper Networks Junos OS on MX Series that allows unauthorized network-based attackers to bypass access restrictions.

Understanding CVE-2024-21597

The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-21597 involves an Exposure of Resource to Wrong Sphere in the Packet Forwarding Engine (PFE) of Junos OS on MX Series. It enables an attacker to evade intended access restrictions, potentially leading to unauthorized access.

What is CVE-2024-21597?

The Exposure of Resource to Wrong Sphere vulnerability in Juniper Networks Junos OS on MX Series allows unauthenticated attackers to bypass access restrictions. Specifically, in an Abstracted Fabric (AF) scenario, configured routing-instances (RI) can permit specific traffic to circumvent firewall filters and be received in the wrong context.

The Impact of CVE-2024-21597

This vulnerability affects Juniper Networks Junos OS on MX Series versions earlier than:

20.4R3-S9
21.2R3-S3
21.4R3-S5
22.1R3
22.2R3
22.3R2

Technical Details of CVE-2024-21597

The vulnerability in Junos OS on MX Series has a CVSSv3.1 base score of 5.3 with a medium severity rating. The attack complexity is categorized as low, requiring no user interaction. The impact on integrity is low, with no impact on availability. The exploit vector is through the network.

Vulnerability Description

The Exposure of Resource to Wrong Sphere vulnerability allows attackers to bypass access restrictions in Juniper Networks Junos OS on MX Series by receiving specific traffic in the wrong context.

Affected Systems and Versions

Junos OS on MX Series versions prior to 20.4R3-S9, 21.2R3-S3, 21.4R3-S5, 22.1R3, 22.2R3, and 22.3R2 are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

No known malicious exploitation has been reported by Juniper SIRT regarding this vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps and follow long-term security practices to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2024-21597.

Immediate Steps to Take

Deploy the updated software releases provided by Juniper, including Junos OS 20.4R3-S9, 21.2R3-S3, 21.4R3-S5, 22.1R3, 22.2R3, 22.3R2, 22.4R1, and any subsequent releases.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement network segmentation, access controls, and regular security assessments to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitor vendor advisories and apply security patches promptly to protect systems from known vulnerabilities.

Remember, timely updates and proactive security measures are essential in safeguarding network infrastructure from potential threats.