Horizon Alert
Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters
Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) and Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) software contain vulnerabilities in their web services interface. These flaws could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by users. This could lead to the execution of arbitrary code within the user's browser context or the exposure of sensitive, browser-based information. The vulnerabilities are specifically linked to insufficient validation of user-supplied input within the affected interface, impacting certain AnyConnect and WebVPN configurations.
- Vulnerable web services interface
- Insufficient input validation
- Data exposure and script execution
Attack Path
How an attacker could exploit the issue
Multiple vulnerabilities in the web services interface of Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) and Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) Software may allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to execute cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks. These vulnerabilities stem from insufficient validation of user-supplied input within the web services interface. An attacker could exploit these issues by tricking a user of the interface into clicking a malicious link. A successful exploit could lead to the execution of arbitrary script code within the interface's context or the exposure of sensitive browser-based information.
- Affected devices expose a web services interface.
- An attacker directs a user to a crafted link.
- Arbitrary script execution or data access occurs.
Live Threat
Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context
This vulnerability affects the web services interface of Cisco ASA and FTD Software, potentially allowing unauthenticated attackers to conduct cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks. Exploitation requires tricking a user into clicking a crafted link. Successful attacks can lead to the execution of arbitrary script code within the interface, enabling access to sensitive browser-based information. Given that this vulnerability is actively exploited and listed in CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog, it should be treated with high urgency.
- Likely attacker skill level: Low to moderate.
- Required access or conditions: User interaction required (e.g., clicking a link).
- Business risk or urgency: High; actively exploited.
Priority actions
Operational Fix
Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps
This vulnerability involves cross-site scripting in Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) and Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) software. An attacker could exploit this by tricking a user into clicking a crafted link, potentially executing scripts or accessing sensitive browser information. The impact is limited to specific AnyConnect and WebVPN configurations.
- Identify exposed Cisco ASA/FTD assets.
- Reduce exposure or isolate affected systems.
- Apply vendor fixes and validate updates.
- Monitor for related security incidents.
