Multiple vulnerabilities in Cisco Secure Client Software, formerly AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client, could allow an authenticated, local attacker to cause a denial of service (DoS) condition on an affected system. These vulnerabilities are due to an out-of-bounds memory read from Cisco Secure Client Software. An attacker could exploit these vulnerabilities by logging in to an affected device at the same time that another user is accessing Cisco Secure Client on the same system, and then sending crafted packets to a port on that local host. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to crash the VPN Agent service, causing it to be unavailable to all users of the system. To exploit these vulnerabilities, the attacker must have valid credentials on a multi-user system.
The severity of this vulnerability is classified as medium with a CVSS score of 5.5. This indicates a moderate level of risk, particularly because it can lead to a denial of service, affecting the availability of the service for legitimate users. Organizations utilizing Cisco Secure Client Software should take these vulnerabilities seriously and implement necessary patches.
As the vulnerabilities are exploitable by authenticated users, organizations should ensure proper credential management and access controls are in place. The exploitation potential increases in environments where multiple users can access the system concurrently.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate potential impacts associated with these vulnerabilities.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerabilities stem from an out-of-bounds memory read in Cisco Secure Client Software, which can be exploited by authenticated attackers. The affected products include the AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client and the Secure Client.
The CVSS vector for this vulnerability is CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:N/A:H, indicating that it requires local access with low privileges and no user interaction.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability is an out-of-bounds memory read, which occurs when an attacker simultaneously accesses a device while another user is logged in. This flaw allows the attacker to send crafted packets to the affected system, potentially crashing the VPN Agent service.
The attack vector is local, requiring the attacker to have access to the affected system. The complexity of the attack is low, as it relies on valid credentials and the simultaneous use of the client by multiple users. Privileges required are low, and user interaction is not necessary after the initial login.
The impact of successful exploitation primarily affects availability, as it could render the VPN service unusable for all users on the system.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes potential downtime of critical services, which could affect business operations and lead to financial losses. The fact that the vulnerability requires authenticated access limits the attack surface but does not eliminate risk. Organizations should be particularly vigilant in multi-user environments where the likelihood of exploitation increases.
The urgency for patching is classified as medium, necessitating action in the next patch cycle to ensure service availability and integrity.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The following versions of Cisco Secure Client Software are affected: 4.9.00086, 4.9.01095, 4.9.02028, 4.9.03047, 4.9.03049, 4.9.04043, 4.9.04053, 4.9.05042, 4.9.06037, and 4.10.x versions up to 4.10.07073, along with version 5.0.x up to 5.0.03076.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should apply the latest patches provided by Cisco to remediate these vulnerabilities. If a patch is not immediately available, consider implementing network controls to limit access and monitor for any unusual activity on the affected systems. For further guidance, organizations may refer to the penetration testing services to validate security configurations.
Detection Guidance
To identify potential exploitation of this vulnerability, organizations should monitor logs for unusual access patterns and anomalies during simultaneous user logins to the Cisco Secure Client. Ensuring that proper logging and alerting mechanisms are in place will aid in early detection.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
This vulnerability highlights the importance of securing multi-user environments where shared resources can be exploited. Security teams should adopt a proactive approach in managing user access and regularly audit user credentials to prevent unauthorized access. For further insights, organizations can explore resources such as the vulnerability management program and consider implementing penetration testing methodologies to strengthen overall security posture.
Additionally, organizations should stay updated on emerging threats and trends in vulnerability exploitation to remain vigilant against potential risks.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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