CVE-2018-16499 in VOS
Summary
by MITRE • 05/26/2021
In VOS compromised, an attacker at network endpoints can possibly view communications between an unsuspecting user and the service using man-in-the-middle attacks. Usage of unapproved SSH encryption protocols or cipher suites also violates the Data Protection TSR (Technical Security Requirements).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/30/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-16499 affects VOS systems where attackers can exploit network endpoints to conduct man-in-the-middle attacks, potentially intercepting communications between users and services. This weakness stems from the system's inadequate cryptographic security measures that fail to properly validate or enforce secure encryption protocols. The vulnerability represents a significant risk to data confidentiality and integrity as it allows unauthorized parties to eavesdrop on network traffic without detection. The compromised security posture enables attackers to capture sensitive information exchanged between users and the target service, undermining the fundamental principles of secure communications.
The technical flaw manifests through the system's acceptance of unapproved SSH encryption protocols or cipher suites that do not meet established security requirements. This weakness creates a pathway for attackers to downgrade encryption levels or exploit known vulnerabilities in weaker cryptographic implementations. The vulnerability directly violates the Data Protection Technical Security Requirements by failing to enforce proper cryptographic standards. According to CWE classification, this represents a weakness in cryptographic implementation where the system does not properly validate or enforce secure cryptographic protocols. The use of weak cipher suites or deprecated encryption methods creates opportunities for cryptographic attacks that can be exploited through network-based interception techniques.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data interception to encompass potential complete system compromise and data breaches. When attackers can successfully execute man-in-the-middle attacks, they gain access to user credentials, sensitive communications, and potentially system-level information that can be leveraged for further attacks. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality and integrity of data in transit, violating core security principles outlined in industry standards such as NIST SP 800-57 and ISO/IEC 27001. This weakness creates persistent exposure windows where attackers can monitor communications over extended periods, potentially capturing multiple sessions and accumulating valuable intelligence for future exploitation attempts.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-16499 require immediate implementation of secure cryptographic configurations that enforce approved SSH protocols and cipher suites. Organizations should implement strict cryptographic policy enforcement mechanisms that prevent the use of deprecated or weak encryption methods. The solution involves configuring SSH servers to reject connections using unapproved cipher suites and ensuring that only industry-approved cryptographic algorithms are accepted. Security teams must conduct comprehensive audits of all network endpoints to identify systems vulnerable to this attack vector and implement mandatory cryptographic updates. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with techniques related to credential access and defense evasion, as attackers can use the intercepted communications to maintain persistence and avoid detection. Regular security assessments and continuous monitoring of cryptographic implementations are essential to prevent exploitation of this class of vulnerabilities.