CVE-2020-3508 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability in the IP Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) feature of Cisco IOS XE Software for Cisco ASR 1000 Series Aggregation Services Routers with a 20-Gbps Embedded Services Processor (ESP) could lead to a denial of service attack.

Understanding CVE-2020-3508

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Cisco IOS XE Software that could allow an unauthenticated attacker to cause a device to reload, resulting in a denial of service condition.

What is CVE-2020-3508?

The vulnerability in the IP ARP feature of Cisco IOS XE Software for Cisco ASR 1000 Series Routers with a 20-Gbps ESP could be exploited by an adjacent attacker to exhaust system resources and force a device reload.

The Impact of CVE-2020-3508

CVSS Base Score: 7.4 (High Severity)
Attack Vector: Adjacent Network
Availability Impact: High
The vulnerability could result in a denial of service condition by causing affected devices to reload.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-3508

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is due to insufficient error handling when an affected device reaches platform limitations.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: Cisco IOS XE Software
Vendor: Cisco
Affected Version: n/a

Exploitation Mechanism

An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending a series of malicious IP ARP messages to the affected device.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent exploitation of CVE-2020-3508.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the necessary security patches provided by Cisco.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious ARP activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch network devices to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Cisco and apply patches promptly.