CVE-2021-1359 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2021-1359 affecting Cisco Web Security Appliance (WSA). This vulnerability allows attackers to perform command injection and elevate privileges to gain root access.
A vulnerability in the configuration management of Cisco Web Security Appliance (WSA) could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to perform command injection and elevate privileges to root through insufficient validation of user-supplied XML input for the web interface.
Understanding CVE-2021-1359
This CVE details a privilege escalation vulnerability in Cisco Web Security Appliance (WSA) affecting versions that could be exploited by an authenticated remote attacker.
What is CVE-2021-1359?
The vulnerability in the configuration management of Cisco Web Security Appliance (WSA) enables an attacker to execute arbitrary commands on the underlying operating system and gain root privileges by uploading specially crafted XML configuration files.
The Impact of CVE-2021-1359
With a base score of 6.3, this vulnerability has a medium severity level and could lead to command execution and privilege escalation, posing a significant risk to affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-1359
This section delves deeper into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises due to insufficient validation of user-supplied XML input for the web interface, allowing attackers to upload malicious XML configuration files containing scripting code.
Affected Systems and Versions
Cisco Web Security Appliance (WSA) is affected by this vulnerability across all versions.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers with a valid user account capable of uploading configuration files can exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands and elevate their privileges to root.
Mitigation and Prevention
To secure systems from the CVE-2021-1359 vulnerability, immediate steps and long-term security practices are crucial.
Immediate Steps to Take
Organizations should review and apply security updates provided by Cisco to address this vulnerability promptly.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implementing proper user access controls, regularly updating security patches, and monitoring XML file uploads can help mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability.
Patching and Updates
Regularly monitor Cisco's security advisories and apply patches as soon as they are available to protect systems from potential exploitation.