CVE-2017-3854: High severity Cisco Wireless Lan Controller Firmware vulnerability
A vulnerability in the mesh code of Cisco Wireless LAN Controller (WLC) software could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to impersonate a WLC in a meshed topology. The vulnerability is due to insufficient authentication of the parent access point in a mesh configuration. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by forcing the target system to disconnect from the correct parent access point and reconnect to a rogue access point owned by the attacker. An exploit could allow the attacker to control the traffic flowing through the impacted access point or take full control of the target system. This vulnerability affects the following products running a vulnerable version of Wireless LAN Controller software and configured for meshed mode: Cisco 8500 Series Wireless Controller, Cisco 5500 Series Wireless Controller, Cisco 2500 Series Wireless Controller, Cisco Flex 7500 Series Wireless Controller, Cisco Virtual Wireless Controller, Wireless Services Module 2 (WiSM2). Note that additional configuration is needed in addition to upgrading to a fixed release. Cisco Bug IDs: CSCuc98992 CSCuu14804.
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade
Cisco Wireless LAN Controller (WLC) software (mesh mode)to a version that resolves this vulnerability.Patch CSCuc98992 - Upgrade
Upgrade
Cisco Wireless LAN Controller (WLC) software (mesh mode)to a version that resolves this vulnerability.Patch CSCuu14804 - Compensating control
After upgrading to a fixed Cisco WLC release, perform the additional required configuration referenced in the advisory to ensure sufficient authentication of the parent access point in a mesh configuration.
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2017-3854?
CVE-2017-3854 has a medium severity rating, indicating it poses a significant yet manageable security risk.
How do I fix CVE-2017-3854?
To fix CVE-2017-3854, update your Cisco Wireless LAN Controller software to a version that is not affected by this vulnerability.
Which software versions are affected by CVE-2017-3854?
CVE-2017-3854 affects specific versions of Cisco Wireless LAN Controller firmware, including versions 6.0199.4, 7.41.54, 7.0220.0, 7.0250.0, and 8.0.72.140.
Can I exploit CVE-2017-3854 remotely?
Yes, CVE-2017-3854 can be exploited by an unauthenticated remote attacker, allowing them to impersonate a Wireless LAN Controller.
What type of attack is associated with CVE-2017-3854?
CVE-2017-3854 facilitates impersonation attacks in mesh configurations, allowing an attacker to compromise network integrity.