Horizon Alert
Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters
Cisco IOS and IOS XE Software contain a vulnerability within the Cluster Management Protocol (CMP) processing code. This flaw allows an unauthenticated, remote attacker to execute code with elevated privileges or cause a device reload. The vulnerability stems from the protocol incorrectly processing malformed Telnet options intended for internal use.
- Cisco IOS and IOS XE Software
- Malformed Telnet options processed incorrectly
- Device reload or code execution
Attack Path
How an attacker could exploit the issue
This vulnerability exists within the Cisco Cluster Management Protocol (CMP) processing. Exploitation occurs when an attacker sends malformed Telnet options over a Telnet connection to an affected device that is configured to accept such connections. This can result in the attacker gaining elevated privileges or executing arbitrary code on the device.
- Exposure condition: Telnet accepting connections.
- Attacker starting point: Remote network.
- Trigger and result: Malformed Telnet options lead to code execution.
Live Threat
Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context
This vulnerability allows an unauthenticated remote attacker to gain elevated privileges or cause a device reload. Attackers can exploit this by sending malformed data over a Telnet connection. The successful exploitation of this vulnerability could result in an attacker executing arbitrary code, leading to a full compromise of the affected device. The potential for system-wide impact and unauthorized control indicates a significant business risk.
- Attacker skill level: Low
- Required access or conditions: Telnet enabled
- Business risk or urgency: High
Priority actions
Operational Fix
Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps
This vulnerability allows for unauthenticated remote attackers to execute code with elevated privileges or cause device reloads. The vulnerability stems from how specific Telnet options are processed, allowing for malformed options to be sent over any Telnet connection to an affected device. This could lead to a complete compromise of the device.
- Find affected network devices.
- Restrict Telnet access.
- Apply vendor updates and verify.
- Monitor for related issues.
