CVE-2018-0095 : What You Need to Know

A vulnerability in the administrative shell of Cisco AsyncOS on Cisco Email Security Appliance (ESA) and Content Security Management Appliance (SMA) could allow an authenticated, local attacker to escalate their privilege level and gain root access. The attacker needs valid user credentials with at least a privilege level of a guest user. The vulnerability arises from an incorrect networking configuration at the administrative shell CLI. An attacker could exploit this flaw by authenticating to the targeted device and issuing crafted, malicious commands at the administrative shell, potentially leading to root access.

Understanding CVE-2018-0095

This CVE refers to a privilege escalation vulnerability in Cisco Email Security and Content Security Management Appliances.

What is CVE-2018-0095?

The vulnerability allows a local attacker with valid user credentials to elevate their privilege level to gain root access on the affected device.

The Impact of CVE-2018-0095

The vulnerability could result in unauthorized access and control of the affected Cisco Email Security and Content Security Management Appliances.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-0095

This section provides detailed technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in the administrative shell of Cisco AsyncOS on Cisco Email Security Appliance and Content Security Management Appliance allows for privilege escalation, potentially granting root access to an attacker.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Cisco Email Security and Content Security Management Appliance
Version: Cisco Email Security and Content Security Management Appliance

Exploitation Mechanism

Attacker needs valid user credentials with at least a privilege level of a guest user
Vulnerability stems from an incorrect networking configuration in the administrative shell CLI
Attacker authenticates to the device and executes malicious commands to gain root access

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2018-0095 with the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches and updates provided by Cisco
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities
Restrict access to administrative interfaces

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update user privileges and access controls
Conduct security training for employees on best practices and identifying phishing attempts

Patching and Updates

Cisco has released patches to address the vulnerability
Ensure all affected systems are updated with the latest security fixes