Vulnerability identifier: #VU64421

Vulnerability risk: Critical

CVSSv3.1: 8.5 [CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H/E:U/RL:O/RC:C]

CVE-ID: CVE-2022-20798

CWE-ID: CWE-287

Exploitation vector: Network

Exploit availability: No

Vulnerable software:
Secure Email Gateway
Other software / Other software solutions
Cisco AsyncOS for Cisco Email Security Appliance
Server applications / IDS/IPS systems, Firewalls and proxy servers
Cisco Email Security Appliance
Server applications / IDS/IPS systems, Firewalls and proxy servers
Cisco Secure Email and Web Manager
Server applications / Other server solutions

Vendor: Cisco Systems, Inc

Description

The vulnerability allows a remote attacker to bypass authentication process.

The vulnerability exists due to an error improper authentication checks when using the Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) for external authentication. A remote non-authenticated attacker can bypass specially crafted data to the login page of the affected device, bypass the authenticated process and gain unauthorized access to the system.

Mitigation
Install updates from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

Secure Email Gateway: All versions

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External links
http://tools.cisco.com/security/center/content/CiscoSecurityAdvisory/cisco-sa-sma-esa-auth-bypass-66kEcxQD
http://bst.cloudapps.cisco.com/bugsearch/bug/CSCvy13453
http://bst.cloudapps.cisco.com/bugsearch/bug/CSCvx88026

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Q & A

Can this vulnerability be exploited remotely?

Yes. This vulnerability can be exploited by a remote non-authenticated attacker via the Internet.

Is there known malware, which exploits this vulnerability?

No. We are not aware of malware exploiting this vulnerability.