CVE-2017-3854 in Wireless LAN Controller Software
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability in the mesh code of Cisco Wireless LAN Controller (WLC) software could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to impersonate a WLC in a meshed topology. The vulnerability is due to insufficient authentication of the parent access point in a mesh configuration. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by forcing the target system to disconnect from the correct parent access point and reconnect to a rogue access point owned by the attacker. An exploit could allow the attacker to control the traffic flowing through the impacted access point or take full control of the target system. This vulnerability affects the following products running a vulnerable version of Wireless LAN Controller software and configured for meshed mode: Cisco 8500 Series Wireless Controller, Cisco 5500 Series Wireless Controller, Cisco 2500 Series Wireless Controller, Cisco Flex 7500 Series Wireless Controller, Cisco Virtual Wireless Controller, Wireless Services Module 2 (WiSM2). Note that additional configuration is needed in addition to upgrading to a fixed release. Cisco Bug IDs: CSCuc98992 CSCuu14804.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-3854 resides within the mesh networking functionality of Cisco Wireless LAN Controller software, representing a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity of wireless network topologies. This weakness specifically targets the authentication mechanisms employed in meshed wireless configurations where access points communicate with each other to form a distributed network structure. The vulnerability stems from inadequate verification of parent access point authenticity, creating a pathway for malicious actors to compromise network security through sophisticated social engineering and network manipulation techniques.
The technical implementation of this flaw occurs when the wireless controller fails to properly authenticate the parent access point during mesh connection establishment processes. Attackers can exploit this weakness by orchestrating a man-in-the-middle attack that forces legitimate access points to sever connections with their authorized parent nodes and establish communication with attacker-controlled rogue access points. This manipulation allows unauthorized entities to assume control over the mesh network topology, effectively creating a backdoor into the wireless infrastructure. The vulnerability operates at the network layer of the OSI model, specifically affecting the wireless access point association and mesh routing protocols that govern how devices communicate within the wireless network fabric.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-3854 extends far beyond simple unauthorized access, as it enables complete network compromise through traffic interception, modification, and redirection capabilities. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can intercept, modify, or drop wireless traffic flowing through compromised access points, potentially leading to data exfiltration, network disruption, or even complete system takeover. The implications are particularly severe in enterprise environments where wireless controllers manage critical network infrastructure, as the attacker gains the ability to control not just individual access points but entire segments of the wireless mesh network. This vulnerability directly aligns with attack patterns described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the network infiltration and lateral movement tactics, specifically targeting wireless network protocols and infrastructure components.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability must implement comprehensive remediation strategies that include both software updates and additional configuration changes beyond simple patching. The Cisco bug IDs CSCuc98992 and CSCuu14804 identify specific implementation details that require careful attention during the remediation process. The recommended mitigation approach involves upgrading to fixed software versions while simultaneously implementing additional network security controls such as enhanced access point authentication mechanisms, network segmentation strategies, and continuous monitoring of mesh network connections. Security professionals should also consider implementing wireless intrusion detection systems and regular network audits to identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper authentication protocols in distributed network architectures and aligns with CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues in networked systems, emphasizing the critical need for robust identity verification mechanisms in wireless infrastructure components.