CVE-2020-3187 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A vulnerability in the web services interface of Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) Software and Cisco Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) Software could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to conduct directory traversal attacks and obtain read and delete access to sensitive files on a targeted system.

Understanding CVE-2020-3187

This CVE involves a critical vulnerability in Cisco ASA and FTD Software that could lead to unauthorized access and manipulation of files on the affected system.

What is CVE-2020-3187?

The vulnerability arises from inadequate input validation of HTTP URLs, enabling attackers to exploit directory traversal character sequences in crafted HTTP requests. This could result in unauthorized access to sensitive files within the web services file system.

The Impact of CVE-2020-3187

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 9.1, indicating a critical severity level. It poses a high risk to confidentiality and integrity, allowing attackers to view and delete files within the web services file system.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-3187

This section provides detailed technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows unauthenticated remote attackers to perform directory traversal attacks, potentially leading to unauthorized access and deletion of sensitive files on the targeted system.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) Software
Vendor: Cisco
Versions: Not applicable (n/a)

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: None
Scope: Unchanged
Exploitation can occur through crafted HTTP requests containing directory traversal character sequences.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-3187 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-provided patches or updates promptly.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Monitor and analyze network traffic for any suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate weaknesses.
Educate users and administrators about safe browsing practices and security protocols.

Patching and Updates

Cisco has released patches to address the vulnerability. Ensure all affected systems are updated with the latest security fixes to mitigate the risk of exploitation.