CVE-2020-3583:Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Vulnerability in Cisco ASA and FTD Web Services Interface

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Multiple cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities exist in the web services interface of Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) Software and Cisco Firepower Threat Defense (FTD) Software. These vulnerabilities could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to conduct XSS attacks against users of the web services interface by persuading them to click on specially crafted links. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary script code in the context of the interface or access sensitive browser-based information.

Overview

The vulnerabilities (CVE-2020-3583) stem from insufficient validation of user-supplied input by the web services interface in Cisco ASA and FTD Software. An attacker could exploit these vulnerabilities by creating malicious links and convincing users of the interface to click on them. If successful, the attacker could execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the victim's browser within the context of the affected interface, potentially leading to the theft of sensitive information, session hijacking, or other browser-based attacks.

These vulnerabilities specifically affect certain AnyConnect and WebVPN configurations. The issue is classified as CWE-79 (Cross-Site Scripting), which is a common web application security flaw that occurs when an application includes untrusted data in a web page without proper validation or escaping.

Remediation

  1. Update to the latest version of Cisco ASA Software or Cisco FTD Software as provided in the Cisco Security Advisory.
  2. If immediate patching is not possible, consider implementing the following temporary mitigations:
    • Limit access to the web services interface to trusted administrators
    • Educate users about the risks of clicking on untrusted links
    • Consider using network security controls to restrict access to the web interface
  3. Monitor system logs for potential exploitation attempts
  4. Follow security best practices for web interface access, including using HTTPS and implementing strong authentication mechanisms

References

  1. Cisco Security Advisory: https://tools.cisco.com/security/center/content/CiscoSecurityAdvisory/cisco-sa-asaftd-xss-multiple-FCB3vPZe
  2. MITRE CWE-79 (Cross-Site Scripting): https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/79.html
  3. Cisco Security Advisory Title: "Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance Software and Firepower Threat Defense Software Web Services Interface Cross-Site Scripting Vulnerabilities"
  4. Publication Date: October 21, 2020

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Health Care & Social Assistance
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  2. Manufacturing
    Manufacturing
  3. Public Administration
    Public Administration
  4. Retail Trade
    Retail Trade
  5. Accommodation & Food Services
    Accommodation & Food Services
  6. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  7. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  8. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  9. Construction
    Construction
  10. Educational Services
    Educational Services
  11. Finance and Insurance
    Finance and Insurance
  12. Information
    Information
  13. Management of Companies & Enterprises
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  14. Mining
    Mining
  15. Other Services (except Public Administration)
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  16. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  17. Real Estate Rental & Leasing
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  18. Transportation & Warehousing
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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