CVE-2018-0269

Vulnerability

A vulnerability in the web framework of Cisco Digital Network Architecture Center (DNA Center) allows an unauthenticated, remote attacker to communicate with the Kong API server without restriction. The issue stems from an overly permissive Cross-Origin Resource Sharing (CORS) policy that does not properly restrict which origins can make cross-origin requests. Affected versions include all Cisco DNA Center releases prior to a fix; specific version numbers are not disclosed in the available references but are tracked via Cisco bug ID CSCvh99208 [1]. The vulnerable code path is reachable without any special configuration beyond default settings.

Exploitation

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by convincing a victim to follow a malicious link, such as through a phishing email or a crafted web page. The attacker does not need prior authentication or any special network position. Once the user visits the malicious link, the attacker can make cross-origin requests to the Kong API server from the victim's browser, bypassing the CORS policy restrictions. The exploit requires user interaction (the victim clicking the link) and is classified as a client-side attack [1].

Impact

Successful exploitation allows the attacker to communicate with the Kong API server and exfiltrate sensitive information. The impact is primarily confidentiality loss (information disclosure), as the attacker can read API responses containing sensitive data. The attacker does not gain administrative control or the ability to modify system settings based on available information [1].

Mitigation

Cisco has released fixed software versions for Cisco DNA Center; customers should consult the Cisco bug ID CSCvh99208 for specific fixed release information. No workarounds are available for this vulnerability [1]. Fixed versions were available as of April 18, 2018, per the advisory publication date. Users are advised to upgrade to a patched release as soon as possible. This vulnerability is not listed on the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog at the time of this writing.