CVE-2020-3284

Cisco IOS XR Software Enhanced Preboot eXecution Environment Unsigned Code Execution Vulnerability

Description

A vulnerability in the enhanced Preboot eXecution Environment (PXE) boot loader for Cisco IOS XR 64-bit Software could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to execute unsigned code during the PXE boot process on an affected device. The PXE boot loader is part of the BIOS and runs over the management interface of hardware platforms that are running Cisco IOS XR Software only. The vulnerability exists because internal commands that are issued when the PXE network boot process is loading a software image are not properly verified. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by compromising the PXE boot server and replacing a valid software image with a malicious one. Alternatively, the attacker could impersonate the PXE boot server and send a PXE boot reply with a malicious file. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to execute unsigned code on the affected device. Note: To fix this vulnerability, both the Cisco IOS XR Software and the BIOS must be upgraded. The BIOS code is included in Cisco IOS XR Software but might require additional installation steps. For further information, see the Fixed Software section of this advisory.

Category

9.8
CVSS
Severity: Critical
CVSS 3.1 •
CVSS 3.0 •
CVSS 2.0 •
EPSS 4.58% Top 15%
Vendor Advisory cisco.com
Affected: Cisco Cisco IOS XR Software
Published at:
Updated at:

References

Link Tags
https://tools.cisco.com/security/center/content/CiscoSecurityAdvisory/cisco-sa-iosxr-pxe-unsign-code-exec-qAa78fD2 vendor advisory

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the severity of CVE-2020-3284?
CVE-2020-3284 has been scored as a critical severity vulnerability.
How to fix CVE-2020-3284?
To fix CVE-2020-3284, make sure you are using an up-to-date version of the affected component(s) by checking the vendor release notes. As for now, there are no other specific guidelines available.
Is CVE-2020-3284 being actively exploited in the wild?
It is possible that CVE-2020-3284 is being exploited or will be exploited in a near future based on public information. According to its EPSS score, there is a ~5% probability that this vulnerability will be exploited by malicious actors in the next 30 days.
What software or system is affected by CVE-2020-3284?
CVE-2020-3284 affects Cisco Cisco IOS XR Software.
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