Horizon Alert
Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters
Cisco IOS and IOS XE Software contain a vulnerability within the Internet Key Exchange Version 2 (IKEv2) module. This flaw could allow an unauthorized remote attacker to cause a denial of service by overwhelming the device's processing capabilities. The impact can include high CPU utilization, system error messages, and device reloads, disrupting network operations.
- Vulnerable: Cisco IOS and IOS XE IKEv2 module
- Flaw: Improper processing of specific IKEv2 packets
- Impact: Network device denial of service
Attack Path
How an attacker could exploit the issue
A vulnerability in the Internet Key Exchange Version 2 (IKEv2) module of Cisco IOS and IOS XE Software allows for denial of service. This vulnerability is due to the way affected devices process certain IKEv2 packets. An attacker can exploit this by sending specific IKEv2 packets to an affected device. This could lead to high CPU utilization, traceback messages, or a device reload, impacting network availability.
- Network exposure required.
- Unauthenticated remote attacker gains access.
- Specific IKEv2 packets trigger DoS.
Live Threat
Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context
An unauthenticated, remote attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending specially crafted IKEv2 packets to an affected Cisco device. The exploit is considered to have low complexity, requiring no special privileges or user interaction. Successful exploitation can lead to a denial-of-service condition, causing high CPU utilization, traceback messages, or a device reload. This can disrupt network availability and impact business operations.
- Likely attacker skill level: Low
- Required access or conditions: Network access, no privileges
- Business risk or urgency: High, affects network availability
Priority actions
Operational Fix
Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps
A vulnerability in Cisco's Internet Key Exchange Version 2 (IKEv2) module can allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to cause a denial of service condition. This may result in high CPU utilization, traceback messages, or a device reload. The vulnerability affects Cisco devices with the Internet Security Association and Key Management Protocol (ISAKMP) enabled, including various VPN types.
- Find affected network devices.
- Reduce exposure or isolate risk.
- Fix, verify, and monitor.
