CVE-2021-1303 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2021-1303, a medium severity vulnerability in Cisco DNA Center that allows unauthorized command execution by authenticated attackers. Find mitigation steps and security practices to prevent exploitation.
A vulnerability in the user management roles of Cisco DNA Center could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to execute unauthorized commands on an affected device.
Understanding CVE-2021-1303
This CVE identifies a privilege escalation vulnerability in Cisco DNA Center, potentially enabling unauthorized command execution by an authenticated attacker.
What is CVE-2021-1303?
The vulnerability stems from improper enforcement of actions for assigned user roles within Cisco DNA Center. By authenticating as a user with an Observer role, an attacker could execute unauthorized commands on the affected device, potentially leading to the viewing of diagnostic information of managed devices.
The Impact of CVE-2021-1303
The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.0 base score of 4.3, indicating a medium severity issue. If successfully exploited, a user with an Observer role could gain unauthorized access to view diagnostic data, posing a risk to the confidentiality of information.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-1303
This section provides detailed insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in Cisco DNA Center allows an authenticated attacker with an Observer role to execute unauthorized commands on affected devices due to improper enforcement of user role actions.
Affected Systems and Versions
The affected product is the Cisco Digital Network Architecture Center (DNA Center), and all versions are vulnerable to this privilege escalation issue.
Exploitation Mechanism
An attacker needs to authenticate as a user with an Observer role to exploit the vulnerability, enabling them to execute unauthorized commands on the affected device.
Mitigation and Prevention
To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-1303, follow the recommended security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
Organizations should monitor Cisco's security advisories and apply necessary patches or updates to Cisco DNA Center to address the vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implement a least privilege access model, conduct regular security assessments, and ensure all users adhere to secure role assignments within Cisco DNA Center.
Patching and Updates
Regularly check for security updates from Cisco and apply patches promptly to safeguard against known vulnerabilities.