CVE-2022-20656: Path Traversal Vulnerability in Cisco PI and Cisco EPNM Web-Based Management Interface

A critical vulnerability, CVE-2022-20656, has been discovered in the web-based management interfaces of Cisco Prime Infrastructure (PI) and Cisco Evolved Programmable Network Manager (EPNM). This vulnerability can allow an authenticated, remote attacker to conduct a path traversal attack on an affected device, potentially leading to file manipulation and malicious activity. To exploit this vulnerability, the attacker must have valid credentials on the system.

Vulnerability Details

This vulnerability is caused due to insufficient input validation of the HTTPS URL by the web-based management interface. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending a crafted request that contains directory traversal character sequences to an affected device. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to write arbitrary files to the host system.

Here is a code snippet example of a possible crafted request

GET /vulnerable_endpoint/?file=../../../etc/passwd HTTP/1.1
Host: target.example.com
Cookie: somevalidcookie

In this example, the attacker attempts to access the /etc/passwd file by including directory traversal characters in the request URL. If the attack is successful, the attacker could potentially gain access to sensitive information or manipulate critical files on the affected system.

Original References

Cisco has published security advisories detailing these vulnerabilities, which can be found at the following links:
1. Cisco Prime Infrastructure Path Traversal Vulnerability
2. Cisco Evolved Programmable Network Manager Path Traversal Vulnerability

These advisories provide additional technical details, software versions affected, and the corresponding software updates that resolve the vulnerability.

Exploit Details

There are currently no known public exploits for this vulnerability. However, it is always possible for attackers to develop methods for exploiting the vulnerability. Therefore, it is crucial to apply the available patches as soon as possible to mitigate the risk of compromise.

Mitigation

Cisco has released software updates that address these vulnerabilities. There are no workarounds that address this specific issue. Users are strongly advised to apply the appropriate software patches as soon as possible to mitigate the risk of a successful exploit. It is also recommended to monitor network activity and log files for any signs of unauthorized access.

Users should check the following links for the latest patches and updates from Cisco

1. Cisco Prime Infrastructure Software
2. Cisco Evolved Programmable Network Manager Software

Conclusion

CVE-2022-20656 is a critical path traversal vulnerability in the web-based management interfaces of Cisco PI and Cisco EPNM. It is crucial for affected users to apply the software updates released by Cisco promptly. Remember to monitor network activity and log files regularly to help detect and mitigate any unauthorized access attempts. Don't be complacent; apply all necessary security updates and maintain a proactive cybersecurity posture.

Timeline

Published on: 11/15/2024 16:15:21 UTC
Last modified on: 11/18/2024 17:11:56 UTC