MULTIPLE VULNERABILITIES IN CISCO JABBER DISCOVERED

A cybersecurity alert was issued today, March 25, 2021, regarding multiple vulnerabilities in Cisco Jabber. The vulnerabilities could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code, which could potentially lead to a breach.

What It Is:

Multiple vulnerabilities have been discovered in Cisco Jabber the most severe of which could allow for arbitrary code execution. Cisco Jabber provides instant messaging (IM), voice, video, voice messaging, desktop sharing, and conferencing on any device.

Successful exploitation of the most severe of these vulnerabilities could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to execute code on the affected systems. Depending on the privileges associated with the application, an attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights. Applications configured to have fewer restrictions on the system could be less impacted than those who operate with elevated privileges.

Read the original Cisco Security Advisory.

Threat Intelligence:

There are currently no reports of these vulnerabilities being exploited in the wild.

Systems Affected:

• Cisco Jabber for Windows 12.1 versions prior to 12.1.5
• Cisco Jabber for Windows 12.5 versions prior to 12.5.4
• Cisco Jabber for Windows 12.6 versions prior to 12.6.5
• Cisco Jabber for Windows 12.7 versions prior to 12.7.4
• Cisco Jabber for Windows 12.8 versions prior to 12.8.5
• Cisco Jabber for Windows 12.9 versions prior to 12.9.5
• Cisco Jabber for MacOS 12.8 versions prior to 12.8.7
• Cisco Jabber for MacOS 12.9 versions prior to 12.9.6

Risk:

Government:

• Large and medium government entities: High
• Small government entities: High

Businesses:

• Large and medium business entities: High
• Small business entities: High

Home users: Low

What It Means:

If you and/or your business utilize the Cisco Jabber versions mentioned above, you will need to install the update provided by Cisco immediately following proper testing.

Technical Summary:

Multiple vulnerabilities have been discovered in Cisco Jabber, the most severe of which could allow for arbitrary code execution. Details of these vulnerabilities are as follows:

• Multiple vulnerabilities exist due to improper validation of message contents. These vulnerabilities could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to execute arbitrary code. (CVE-2021-1411, CVE-2021-1469)
• A vulnerability exists due to improper validation of message contents. This vulnerability could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to gain access to sensitive information. (CVE-2021-1417)
• A vulnerability exists due to improper validation of certificates. This vulnerability could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to intercept protected network traffic. (CVE-2021-1471)
• A vulnerability exists due to improper validation of message contents. This vulnerability could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to cause a DoS condition. (CVE-2021-1418)

What To Do:

We recommend the following actions be taken:

• Install the update provided by Cisco immediately after appropriate testing.
• Run all software as a non-privileged user (one without administrative privileges) to diminish the effects of a successful attack.
• Remind users not to visit websites or follow links provided by unknown or untrusted sources.
• Inform and educate users regarding the threats posed by hypertext links contained in emails or attachments especially from untrusted sources.
• Apply the Principle of Least Privilege to all systems and services.

Negative Consequences of Lost or Stolen Data:

The loss or theft of proprietary data can have severe impacts, particularly if the compromise becomes public and sensitive information is exposed. Possible impacts include:

• Temporary or permanent loss of sensitive or proprietary information.
• Disruption to regular operations.
• Financial losses incurred to restore systems and files.
• Potential harm to an organization’s reputation.

Should your agency or business need assistance with issues arising from vulnerabilities in Cisco Jabber including updates and/or patches, Dox can help. Please contact Dox if there is anything we can do to assist in securing your agency, business, or organization.

Thank you for your time and stay safe online.