CVE-2018-0161
Published: March 3, 2022
Official Description
A vulnerability in the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) subsystem of Cisco IOS Software running on certain models of Cisco Catalyst Switches could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to cause a denial-of-service (DoS) condition.
CISA KEV Advisory
Cisco IOS Software Resource Management Errors Vulnerability
A vulnerability in the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) subsystem of Cisco IOS Software running on certain models of Cisco Catalyst Switches could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to cause a denial-of-service (DoS) condition.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
This vulnerability in the SNMP subsystem of Cisco IOS Software on certain Catalyst Switches allows an authenticated, remote attacker to cause a denial-of-service (DoS) condition. Its inclusion in CISA's KEV catalog and active exploitation in the wild highlight its importance, despite a low EPSS score indicating a lower overall exploitation probability across all internet-facing systems. This flaw could disrupt network services.
This vulnerability is actively exploited in the wild, as confirmed by its inclusion in CISA's KEV catalog. Exploitation requires authentication and remote access to the SNMP subsystem.
Apply the latest security updates from Cisco for affected IOS Software. Restrict SNMP access to trusted management networks and use strong authentication for SNMP.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2018-0161 requires local access, meaning attackers must already have a foothold on the target system.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
CISA has added CVE-2018-0161 to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, confirming active exploitation in the wild. U.S. federal agencies are required to patch this within the mandated timeframe, and all organizations should treat remediation as urgent.
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (1)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2018-0161 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts
- !CISA KEV: Federal agencies must patch per BOD 22-01 timeline
- !Active exploitation confirmed — treat as P1