CVE-2020-3572 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2020-3572, a high-severity vulnerability in Cisco ASA & FTD Software that could lead to a denial of service attack. Find mitigation steps and patching details here.
A vulnerability in the SSL/TLS session handler of Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) Software and Cisco Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) Software could lead to a denial of service (DoS) attack.
Understanding CVE-2020-3572
This CVE involves a memory leak in SSL/TLS connections, potentially allowing an attacker to exhaust memory resources on affected devices.
What is CVE-2020-3572?
The vulnerability in Cisco ASA and FTD Software could be exploited by an unauthenticated remote attacker to cause a DoS condition by manipulating SSL/TLS connections.
The Impact of CVE-2020-3572
- Severity: High (CVSS Base Score: 8.6)
- Attack Vector: Network
- Availability Impact: High
- Scope: Changed
- User Interaction: None
- Privileges Required: None
- The vulnerability could result in a DoS condition, requiring manual intervention to recover affected devices.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-3572
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
- The vulnerability stems from a memory leak during SSL/TLS connection closure in a specific state.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Systems: Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) Software and Cisco Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) Software
- Affected Version: Not applicable (n/a)
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by establishing and closing multiple SSL/TLS sessions under specific conditions.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2020-3572 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor-provided patches or updates promptly.
- Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.
- Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch software and firmware.
- Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities.
- Educate users on safe browsing habits and security best practices.
Patching and Updates
- Cisco has released patches to address the vulnerability. Ensure all affected systems are updated with the latest security fixes.