CVE-2021-1281 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2021-1281 affecting Cisco IOS XE SD-WAN Software. Understand the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps for this privilege escalation vulnerability.
A vulnerability in CLI management in Cisco IOS XE SD-WAN Software could allow an authenticated, local attacker to access the underlying operating system as the root user.
Understanding CVE-2021-1281
This CVE affects Cisco IOS XE SD-WAN Software and presents a privilege escalation vulnerability, potentially granting an attacker root access to the system.
What is CVE-2021-1281?
CVE-2021-1281 is a vulnerability in CLI management in Cisco IOS XE SD-WAN Software, enabling a local authenticated attacker to gain root access to the underlying operating system.
The Impact of CVE-2021-1281
The exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to the system as the root user, posing a significant security risk in affected environments.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-1281
The vulnerability is attributed to how the software manages concurrent CLI sessions, allowing an attacker to execute commands after authenticating as an administrative user.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw in Cisco IOS XE SD-WAN Software facilitates unauthorized root access to the operating system by manipulating CLI sessions.
Affected Systems and Versions
Cisco IOS XE SD-WAN Software versions are impacted by this vulnerability, potentially affecting systems where the software is installed.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers with administrative user credentials can exploit the vulnerability by executing a specific sequence of commands, granting them root privileges.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2021-1281, immediate action and long-term security practices are recommended to enhance system protection.
Immediate Steps to Take
Implement access controls, monitor system logs for unusual activities, and restrict user privileges to mitigate the risk of exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
Regularly update the software, conduct security audits, and educate users on secure practices to maintain a robust security posture.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security advisories from Cisco and promptly apply patches and updates to ensure the protection of systems and data.