Horizon Alert
Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters
Cisco IOS Software and Cisco IOS XE Software contain a vulnerability within the Smart Install feature. This flaw could permit an attacker to cause an affected device to reload, leading to a denial-of-service condition. The vulnerability arises from improper validation of packet data.
- Cisco IOS and IOS XE Software
- Improper packet data validation
- Denial of service (DoS)
Attack Path
How an attacker could exploit the issue
The Smart Install feature in Cisco IOS Software and Cisco IOS XE Software is susceptible to a denial-of-service condition. This vulnerability arises from improper validation of packet data, which an attacker can exploit. By sending a specially crafted packet to an affected device on TCP port 4786, an attacker can cause the device to reload, disrupting services. This attack vector is only applicable to Smart Install client switches; Smart Install director devices are not affected.
- External network exposure
- Attacker sends crafted packet
- Device reloads, causing denial of service
Live Threat
Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context
This vulnerability affects Cisco network devices and could allow an attacker to cause a denial of service, making the device unavailable. The vulnerability is present in the Smart Install feature, which is used for local device configuration and is not typically exposed to the internet.
- Attackers need network access.
- Affected devices must use Smart Install.
- Risk is low, not urgent.
Priority actions
Operational Fix
Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps
This vulnerability could impact network devices by allowing an unauthenticated attacker to cause a denial-of-service condition. Organizations should prioritize identifying all affected devices to understand their exposure. The risk can be mitigated by disabling the vulnerable feature or implementing network segmentation. Applying vendor-provided fixes and validating their successful implementation is crucial for remediation, followed by continuous monitoring for related activities.
- Find exposed network devices.
- Disable the affected feature.
- Apply vendor fix and verify.
- Monitor for related activity.
