External risk intelligence

Cisco IOS Software Login Vulnerability Leading to Denial of Service.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2018-0180

Multiple vulnerabilities in Cisco IOS Software's Login Enhancements feature could allow an unauthenticated remote attacker to cause a system reload, leading to a denial-of-service. This impacts organizations by disrupting network services and system availability. The risk is associated with devices positioned at the in

4Halo Surface Signal

Denial of Service

Cisco Ios

15.3\(00.00.19\)sy15.4\(01\)ia001.10015.6\(01.22\)t15.4\(03\)m4.1

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2018-0180

This vulnerability affects Cisco IOS Software, which is commonly deployed on internet-facing edge routers and gateway devices. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable without authentication via the Login Enhancements feature, making it a plausible target for exposure when such network infrastructure devices are positioned at the internet perimeter.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

Multiple vulnerabilities in Cisco IOS Software's Login Enhancements feature could allow an unauthenticated remote attacker to cause a system reload, leading to a denial-of-service condition. This impacts organizations by potentially disrupting network services and system availability. The core issue lies in the handling of specific requests within the login enhancement feature.

  • Cisco IOS Software Login Enhancements
  • Flaw allows system reload
  • Business impact: service disruption

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

Cisco IOS Software contains multiple vulnerabilities within its Login Enhancements feature. These vulnerabilities could permit an unauthenticated remote attacker to initiate a system reload, leading to a denial-of-service condition. The attack targets the Login Block functionality, potentially disrupting the availability of network services.

  • System exposed to the network.
  • Unauthenticated remote attacker.
  • Triggering login enhancement; system reloads.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

Multiple vulnerabilities in Cisco IOS Software's Login Enhancements feature could enable an unauthenticated attacker to cause a system reload, leading to a denial of service. This could impact network availability for organizations relying on affected Cisco devices. The risk is amplified as these devices are often internet-facing.

  • Attacker skill: Moderate
  • Conditions: Network access required
  • Business risk: Service disruption

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

The organization should take immediate action to address vulnerabilities within Cisco IOS Software's Login Enhancements feature. These vulnerabilities could allow attackers to cause a denial-of-service by triggering system reloads. The primary impact is disruption of services for affected organizations and potential unreliability of network systems.

  • Identify all Cisco devices running the affected IOS Software.
  • Restrict network access to vulnerable devices.
  • Apply vendor patches and confirm successful implementation.
  • Monitor for related security events.

Frequently asked questions

What is Cisco IOS Software and how does it handle network traffic?

Cisco IOS Software is the operating system for many Cisco networking devices like routers and switches. It is responsible for managing network traffic, allowing devices to connect to the internet and other networks, and forms the foundation of many organizational network infrastructures.

What is the weakness class associated with CVE-2018-0180?

The weakness class for CVE-2018-0180 is CWE-399, which concerns the improper handling of critical system resources. This vulnerability in Cisco IOS Software's login features could enable an attacker to misuse these resources, potentially causing a system crash.

How can an unauthenticated attacker exploit the Login Enhancements feature in Cisco IOS Software?

An unauthenticated, remote attacker can exploit vulnerabilities in the Login Enhancements feature of Cisco IOS Software. By doing so, they can trigger a reload of an affected system, leading to a denial-of-service condition.

What is the significance of the Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2018-0180?

The Halo Surface Signal score of 4, labeled as 'Likely', indicates that this vulnerability affecting Cisco IOS Software is a plausible target for exposure. This is because the software is often used on internet-facing routers and gateways, and the vulnerability is remotely exploitable without authentication through its Login Enhancements feature.

What actions should be taken to address vulnerabilities in Cisco IOS Software's Login Enhancements feature?

Organizations should take immediate steps to mitigate vulnerabilities within Cisco IOS Software's Login Enhancements feature. This involves applying updates and following the guidance provided by Cisco to prevent potential denial-of-service attacks.

References