CVE-2016-1441

Vulnerability

Cisco Cloud Network Automation Provisioner (CNAP) version 1.0(0), part of Cisco Configuration Assistant (CCA), contains a vulnerability that allows unauthenticated remote attackers to bypass intended filesystem and administrative-endpoint restrictions. The issue stems from a lack of controller mechanisms and input validation checks on the CNAP API, enabling unauthorized access to administrative controllers that do not require authentication or authorization [1].

Exploitation

An attacker with network access to the affected system can exploit this vulnerability by sending crafted GET requests to the administrative endpoints of the CNAP API. No authentication or user interaction is required. The advisory does not provide a specific sequence of steps but indicates that simply running GET queries to these endpoints is sufficient to trigger the unauthorized access [1].

Impact

Successful exploitation allows an unauthenticated attacker to access sensitive file systems and administrative endpoints, potentially leading to information disclosure or further compromise of the affected system. The attacker gains the ability to interact with administrative controllers that should be restricted, elevating their access without any credentials [1].

Mitigation

As of the advisory publication date (June 30, 2016), Cisco has not released software updates to address this vulnerability, and no workarounds are available. Users are advised to monitor Cisco's security advisories for future updates. Given the lack of a fix, organizations should consider network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to the affected CNAP API [1].