CVE-2019-1715 : What You Need to Know

A weakness has been identified in the Deterministic Random Bit Generator (DRBG) used in Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) Software and Cisco Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) Software, potentially enabling unauthorized attackers to initiate a cryptographic collision.

Understanding CVE-2019-1715

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the DRBG, also known as PRNG, in Cisco ASA and FTD Software, allowing attackers to discover private keys of affected devices.

What is CVE-2019-1715?

The vulnerability arises from insufficient randomness during cryptographic key generation by the DRBG, enabling attackers to assume the identity of a target device or decrypt secured traffic.

The Impact of CVE-2019-1715

Attackers can potentially discover private keys of affected devices remotely without authentication credentials.
Successful exploitation allows impersonation of target devices or decryption of secured traffic.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-1715

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the DRBG of Cisco ASA and FTD Software allows attackers to cause a cryptographic collision, leading to the discovery of private keys.

Affected Systems and Versions

Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) Software versions less than 9.8.4 and 9.9.2.50 are affected.
Cisco Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) Software versions less than 6.2.3.12 and 6.3.0.3 are impacted.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers need to generate numerous cryptographic keys on affected devices and search for matches with target devices to exploit the vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-1715 requires immediate steps and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches provided by Cisco to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities.
Implement strong encryption protocols to safeguard communications.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to address security vulnerabilities.
Conduct security audits and assessments to identify and mitigate potential risks.
Educate users and administrators about secure practices to prevent unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Cisco has released patches to address the vulnerability in affected versions of ASA and FTD Software.
Ensure timely application of patches to secure systems against potential attacks.