CVE-2018-6441 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Brocade Fabric OS versions prior to 8.2.1, 8.1.2f, 8.0.2f, 7.4.2d have a vulnerability in Secure Shell implementation that could allow a local attacker to manipulate environment variables, potentially leading to privilege escalation.

Understanding CVE-2018-6441

This CVE identifies a security flaw in Brocade Fabric OS versions before 8.2.1, 8.1.2f, 8.0.2f, 7.4.2d, related to Secure Shell implementation.

What is CVE-2018-6441?

Prior to specified versions, a vulnerability in Secure Shell allows local attackers to control environment variables, bypassing restricted configuration shell.

The Impact of CVE-2018-6441

The vulnerability could enable a local attacker to supply arbitrary environment variables, potentially leading to privilege escalation within the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-6441

Brocade Fabric OS vulnerability details and affected systems.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in Secure Shell implementation permits local attackers to manipulate environment variables, evading restricted configuration shell.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Brocade Fabric OS
Vendor: Brocade Communications Systems, Inc.
Versions Affected: All versions prior to 8.2.1, 8.1.2f, 8.0.2f, 7.4.2d

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by supplying specific environment variables, allowing them to escalate privileges within the system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the CVE-2018-6441 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Brocade Fabric OS to versions 8.2.1, 8.1.2f, 8.0.2f, or 7.4.2d to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities indicating potential exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict access and permissions within the system.
Regularly review and update security configurations to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by Brocade Communications Systems, Inc. to address the Secure Shell vulnerability.