CVE-2014-3393 in ASA
Summary
by MITRE
The Clientless SSL VPN portal customization framework in Cisco ASA Software 8.2 before 8.2(5.51), 8.3 before 8.3(2.42), 8.4 before 8.4(7.23), 8.6 before 8.6(1.14), 9.0 before 9.0(4.24), 9.1 before 9.1(5.12), and 9.2 before 9.2(2.4) does not properly implement authentication, which allows remote attackers to modify RAMFS customization objects via unspecified vectors, as demonstrated by inserting XSS sequences or capturing credentials, aka Bug ID CSCup36829.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/21/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-3393 represents a critical authentication flaw within Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) Software's Clientless SSL VPN portal customization framework. This issue affects multiple versions of Cisco ASA software spanning from version 8.2 through 9.2, creating a widespread exposure across the Cisco security appliance ecosystem. The flaw specifically targets the authentication mechanisms that govern access to RAMFS (Remote Access Memory File System) customization objects, which are essential components for customizing the user experience within the SSL VPN portal environment.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient authentication controls within the ASA software's portal customization framework. Attackers can exploit this weakness to manipulate RAMFS customization objects through unspecified vectors that bypass proper access controls. This authentication failure creates a pathway for remote attackers to inject malicious content directly into the system's memory file structures. The vulnerability's impact is particularly severe because it allows attackers to insert cross-site scripting (XSS) sequences into the portal, potentially enabling them to execute arbitrary code in the context of the victim's browser session.
The operational implications of this vulnerability extend beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with the capability to capture credentials and perform session hijacking attacks. When attackers successfully modify RAMFS customization objects, they can insert malicious scripts that will execute whenever users access the SSL VPN portal, creating persistent attack vectors. The ability to inject XSS sequences means that attackers can steal session cookies, redirect users to malicious sites, or perform actions on behalf of authenticated users. This vulnerability essentially undermines the fundamental security model of the SSL VPN portal, as it allows attackers to modify core system components without proper authentication.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues in software systems, and represents a classic example of how weak authentication controls can lead to privilege escalation and data compromise. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability affects multiple major versions of Cisco ASA software, suggesting that the authentication flaw was present across a significant portion of the product's lifecycle. The fact that this vulnerability was demonstrated through the insertion of XSS sequences indicates that attackers can leverage it for both credential theft and persistent malicious activity within the network environment.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigation strategies including applying the relevant Cisco security patches and updates to bring their ASA software to supported versions. Network segmentation and monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual modifications to portal customization objects. Additionally, administrators should review and restrict access permissions for SSL VPN portal customizations, implementing principle of least privilege controls. The vulnerability's classification as a remote attack vector means that organizations must also consider network-wide security measures including intrusion detection systems and web application firewalls to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to ensure that no other authentication bypass vulnerabilities exist within the network infrastructure.