Horizon Alert
Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters
Cisco IOS and IOS XE Software contain multiple vulnerabilities within the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) subsystem. These flaws could permit an authenticated, remote attacker to execute code on an affected system or cause it to reload. Exploitation involves sending a crafted SNMP packet to an affected system.
- Vulnerable SNMP subsystem
- Buffer overflow in SNMP
- Remote code execution or system reload
Attack Path
How an attacker could exploit the issue
A remote attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending specially crafted network packets to an affected system. This could lead to unauthorized code execution or a system reload. To exploit this, an attacker needs a valid SNMP community string or user credentials.
- Network exposure required
- Attacker sends crafted SNMP packet
- Code execution or system reload occurs
Live Threat
Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context
This vulnerability presents a significant risk, allowing remote code execution or system reloads. It affects Cisco IOS and IOS XE Software when SNMP is enabled and accessible. Attackers could gain full control of affected systems.
- Likely attacker skill level: Low
- Required access or conditions: Authenticated access or community string
- Business risk or urgency: High, treat as urgent
Priority actions
Operational Fix
Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps
A buffer overflow in the SNMP subsystem of Cisco IOS and IOS XE Software enables authenticated attackers to remotely execute code or cause a system reload. Exploitation requires network access to the affected system, and specific authentication credentials or community strings, depending on the SNMP version used. Successful exploitation can lead to arbitrary code execution and full system control or a denial-of-service condition.
- Identify all Cisco devices using SNMP.
- Restrict SNMP access to authorized networks.
- Apply vendor fixes and verify implementation.
