CVE-2018-0330 : What You Need to Know

A vulnerability in the NX-API management application programming interface (API) in devices running, or based on, Cisco NX-OS Software could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to execute commands with elevated privileges.

Understanding CVE-2018-0330

This CVE involves a flaw in the NX-API management API used by devices running Cisco NX-OS Software, potentially enabling a remote attacker with authentication to execute commands with higher privileges.

What is CVE-2018-0330?

The vulnerability arises from inadequate verification of specific parameters in an NX-API request, allowing an authenticated attacker to bypass NX-OS role assignment and execute commands with elevated privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2018-0330

If successfully exploited, the attacker can execute commands with elevated privileges on devices configured to use the NX-API feature, including various Nexus and MDS series switches in standalone NX-OS mode.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-0330

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the NX-API management API allows authenticated attackers to execute commands with elevated privileges by bypassing NX-OS role assignment due to improper parameter validation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: Cisco NX-OS unknown
Affected Versions: Cisco NX-OS unknown

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers authenticate to the NX-API and submit a crafted request to bypass role assignment, enabling execution of commands with elevated privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-0330, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable the NX-API feature if not required
Implement firewall rules to restrict access to the NX-API
Regularly monitor and audit NX-OS devices for unauthorized access

Long-Term Security Practices

Keep systems up to date with the latest security patches
Conduct regular security training for staff to recognize and report suspicious activities

Patching and Updates

Apply relevant patches provided by Cisco to fix the vulnerability