CVE-2012-1357 in NX-OS
Summary
by MITRE
The igmp_snoop_orib_fill_source_update function in the IGMP process in NX-OS 5.0 and 5.1 on Cisco Nexus 5000 series switches allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (device reload) via IGMP packets, aka Bug ID CSCts46521.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/04/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-1357 represents a critical denial of service flaw within the Internet Group Management Protocol implementation of Cisco Nexus 5000 series switches running NX-OS versions 5.0 and 5.1. This issue specifically affects the igmp_snoop_orib_fill_source_update function which processes IGMP packets within the switch's multicast routing infrastructure. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and memory management within the IGMP snooping mechanism, creating a condition where malformed or specially crafted IGMP packets can trigger unexpected behavior in the switch's processing logic. The flaw operates at the network layer where multicast traffic is handled, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication or physical access to the device. The vulnerability has been catalogued under CWE-129 as an "Improper Validation of Array Index" which indicates that the system fails to properly validate the boundaries of array operations during IGMP packet processing.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption as it can cause complete device reloads, effectively rendering the switch unavailable to handle network traffic. This denial of service condition affects the core functionality of the Nexus 5000 series switches which serve as critical components in data center and enterprise network infrastructures. When exploited, the vulnerability forces the switch to restart its IGMP processing module, leading to temporary network disruption as the device reestablishes its multicast forwarding tables. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it can be executed remotely over the network, allowing attackers to target switches from external networks without requiring direct access. This characteristic places the vulnerability in the ATT&CK matrix under the T1499.004 technique for "Network Denial of Service" and specifically aligns with T1566.002 for "Phishing with Malicious Attachment" when considering how attackers might deliver malicious IGMP packets through network-based attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-1357 require immediate implementation of network segmentation and access control measures to limit exposure to untrusted networks. Organizations should implement strict IGMP packet filtering rules at network boundaries to prevent malformed IGMP traffic from reaching affected switches. The most effective long-term solution involves applying the official Cisco security patches and upgrading to NX-OS versions that contain fixes for this vulnerability. Network administrators should also consider implementing monitoring solutions that can detect unusual IGMP packet patterns and alert on potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, the vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining current firmware versions and implementing robust network security practices including regular vulnerability assessments and network traffic analysis. The fix typically involves enhanced input validation within the igmp_snoop_orib_fill_source_update function to properly handle edge cases in IGMP packet processing and prevent memory corruption that leads to device reboots.