A vulnerability in the configuration backup feature of Cisco Nexus Dashboard could allow an attacker who has the encryption password and access to Full or Config-only backup files to access sensitive information. This vulnerability exists because authentication details are included in the encrypted backup files. An attacker with a valid backup file and encryption password from an affected device could decrypt the backup file. The attacker could then use the authentication details in the backup file to access internal-only APIs on the affected device. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to execute arbitrary commands on the underlying operating system as the root user.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 6.5, indicating a medium severity level. This score is derived from its attack vector, which is network-based, and the low attack complexity. Importantly, the vulnerability requires high privileges to exploit and does not necessitate user interaction. The potential impacts on confidentiality and integrity are high, while availability remains unaffected.
Risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to sensitive internal APIs and the potential execution of arbitrary commands, which could lead to significant operational disruptions. Given the nature of the vulnerability, organizations should prioritize remediation efforts.
Organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle, ensuring that configurations are secured and backups are handled securely to mitigate the risks associated with unauthorized access.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability affects the configuration backup feature of Cisco Nexus Dashboard, which is susceptible due to the inclusion of authentication details in encrypted backup files. The CWE classification for this vulnerability is CWE-295, indicating improper certificate validation. The vulnerability was disclosed on April 1, 2026.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability is the improper handling of authentication details within encrypted backup files. The attack vector is network-based, allowing attackers to exploit this vulnerability remotely. The attack complexity is low, as attackers need high privileges and valid credentials to decrypt and access sensitive information. There is no requirement for user interaction, making this vulnerability particularly concerning.
The potential impacts include high confidentiality and integrity risks, as attackers may gain access to sensitive data and execute commands with root privileges. However, there is no impact on availability.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Given the medium severity of this vulnerability and its potential for exploitation, organizations should assess their exposure to this risk. The blast radius could be significant if the vulnerability is exploited, given the ability to execute arbitrary commands on affected devices. The urgency for remediation is medium; organizations should schedule patching and configuration review to mitigate the risk.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions prior to vendor patch are affected. Organizations should check for the latest patches from Cisco to ensure their systems are secured.
Mitigation & Remediation
To mitigate this vulnerability, organizations should implement the following measures: apply the latest vendor patches, ensure secure handling of backup files, and restrict access to sensitive backup configurations. For further guidance, organizations can refer to the penetration testing services to validate the effectiveness of their security measures.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for indicators of unauthorized access attempts, including failed decryption attempts of backup files. Behavioral anomalies in interactions with internal APIs also warrant attention, as they may indicate exploitation attempts.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of this vulnerability lies in its potential to expose sensitive information through insufficient configuration security. Organizations should recognize this as part of a broader trend of vulnerabilities related to backup and configuration management. To bolster defenses, security teams should integrate lessons learned from this incident into their security practices and consider adopting comprehensive vulnerability management programs that prioritize regular security assessments.
Furthermore, the integration of regular penetration testing methodologies can help organizations identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities proactively.
Establishing a culture of security awareness within teams is essential. Organizations should leverage insights from this vulnerability to enhance their security posture and reduce potential risks around sensitive data.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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