CVE-2021-1582 in Application Policy Infrastructure Controller
Summary
by MITRE • 08/26/2021
A vulnerability in the web UI of Cisco Application Policy Infrastructure Controller (APIC) or Cisco Cloud APIC could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to perform a stored cross-site scripting attack on an affected system. This vulnerability is due to improper input validation in the web UI. An authenticated attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending malicious input to the web UI. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to execute arbitrary script code in the context of the web-based interface or access sensitive, browser-based information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/29/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-1582 affects Cisco Application Policy Infrastructure Controller and Cisco Cloud APIC systems, representing a critical security flaw in the web user interface components of these network infrastructure devices. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the web-based management interface, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate system behavior through crafted inputs. The affected systems operate within enterprise networking environments where APIC controllers manage application policies and network infrastructure, making them prime targets for attackers seeking persistent access to critical network resources.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a stored cross-site scripting attack vector, where an authenticated attacker can inject malicious code into the web UI that persists and executes when other users access the affected interface. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-79, which specifically addresses Cross-Site Scripting flaws in web applications. The improper input validation allows attackers to bypass security controls designed to sanitize user inputs, enabling the execution of arbitrary JavaScript code within the context of the victim's browser session. This attack method differs from reflected XSS as the malicious payload is stored on the server and executed when legitimate users view the affected pages rather than being reflected from a request.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to access sensitive browser-based information and potentially escalate privileges within the affected systems. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to steal session cookies, access administrative functions, or perform actions on behalf of authenticated users. The vulnerability's remote exploitation capability means attackers do not require physical access to the network infrastructure, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where network administrators may have elevated privileges. This weakness creates a persistent threat vector that can be leveraged for extended periods without detection, potentially allowing attackers to establish footholds within critical network infrastructure.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including applying Cisco's security patches and updates, implementing network segmentation to limit access to APIC controllers, and monitoring web interface logs for suspicious activity. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for Scripting, as attackers can leverage the stored XSS to execute malicious scripts within the victim's browser context. Security teams should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious input patterns, while conducting regular security assessments to identify additional input validation weaknesses. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input sanitization and output encoding in web applications, particularly in administrative interfaces where the attack surface is expanded due to elevated user privileges and access to sensitive system information.