CVE-2019-1600 in FXOS
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability in the file system permissions of Cisco FXOS Software and Cisco NX-OS Software could allow an authenticated, local attacker to access sensitive information that is stored in the file system of an affected system. The vulnerability is due to improper implementation of file system permissions. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by accessing and modifying restricted files. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to access sensitive and critical files. Firepower 4100 Series Next-Generation Firewalls are affected in versions prior to 2.2.2.91 and 2.3.1.110. Firepower 9300 Series Next-Generation Firewalls are affected in versions prior to 2.2.2.91 and 2.3.1.110. MDS 9000 Series Multilayer Switches are affected in versions prior to 6.2(25), 8.1(1b), and 8.3(1). Nexus 3000 Series Switches are affected in versions prior to 7.0(3)I4(9) and 7.0(3)I7(4). Nexus 3500 Platform Switches are affected in versions prior to 6.0(2)A8(10) and 7.0(3)I7(4). Nexus 3600 Platform Switches are affected in versions prior to 7.0(3)F3(5). Nexus 2000, 5500, 5600, and 6000 Series Switches are affected in versions prior to 7.1(5)N1(1b) and 7.3(3)N1(1). Nexus 7000 and 7700 Series Switches are affected in versions prior to 6.2(22), 7.3(3)D1(1), and 8.2(3). Nexus 9000 Series Switches-Standalone are affected in versions prior to 7.0(3)I4(9) and 7.0(3)I7(4). Nexus 9500 R-Series Line Cards and Fabric Modules are affected in versions prior to 7.0(3)F3(5).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/29/2023
This vulnerability represents a critical file system permission misconfiguration flaw in Cisco's network operating systems that affects multiple product lines including firewalls and switches. The issue stems from improper implementation of file system permissions within Cisco FXOS Software and Cisco NX-OS Software, creating a pathway for authenticated local attackers to access sensitive system information. The vulnerability is classified as a weakness in the implementation of access control mechanisms, aligning with CWE-284 which addresses improper access control in software systems. Attackers can exploit this by directly accessing and potentially modifying restricted files that should be protected from unauthorized access, thereby compromising the integrity and confidentiality of critical system data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends across numerous Cisco network infrastructure products, with specific affected versions documented for each platform. Firepower 4100 and 9300 series firewalls are vulnerable in versions prior to 2.2.2.91 and 2.3.1.110, while MDS 9000 series multilayer switches require updates beyond versions 6.2(25), 8.1(1b), and 8.3(1). The vulnerability affects Nexus series switches across multiple platforms including 2000, 5500, 5600, 6000, 7000, 7700, 9000, and 9500 series, with varying version requirements for remediation. This widespread impact indicates a fundamental flaw in the permission model implementation that could compromise the security posture of enterprise network infrastructure, potentially allowing attackers to access configuration files, authentication credentials, and other sensitive operational data.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1078 principle of Valid Accounts, as attackers must first authenticate to the system before leveraging the permission flaw. The attack vector specifically targets local access rather than remote exploitation, making it a privilege escalation vulnerability that requires initial authentication. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where local access is possible, such as when administrators or authorized users have physical or network access to the affected devices. The potential for attackers to access sensitive information stored in the file system could include system configuration details, cryptographic keys, user credentials, and other critical operational data that could be used for further attacks or system compromise.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including updating affected systems to the latest software versions that address the permission implementation flaws. The recommended remediation approach involves upgrading all affected Cisco devices to versions that properly implement file system permissions and access controls. Security teams should also conduct thorough audits of file system permissions and access controls on affected systems, implementing additional monitoring to detect unauthorized access attempts. Network segmentation and least privilege principles should be enforced to minimize the potential impact if an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability. Regular security assessments should be performed to ensure that file system permissions are properly configured and that no unauthorized access paths exist within the network infrastructure.