Cisco Systems’ SSL VPN Relay Extension for Chrome (CVE-2018-0294) is a zero-day vulnerability that can be exploited to gain remote access to a Chrome browser running the Cisco SSL VPN Relay Extension.
Cisco has released a patch for this vulnerability and released it through Chrome Update.
So, if your Chrome browser has updated to the latest version, it’s safe from this vulnerability.
Quick Answer
To check if your Chrome web browser is updated to the latest version, click on the three horizontal dots on the upper right corner of the Chrome browser window. Then, click on “Settings”. Under “System”, look for “About Chrome” and check the version number. If it’s 71.0.3578.80 (Official Update) then your Chrome web browser is updated to the latest version and is not vulnerable to the Cisco SSL VPN Relay Extension.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the Cisco SSL VPN Relay Extension for Chrome and the Cisco SSL VPN Relay Extension CVE-2018-0294 vulnerability.
Overview of Cisco SSL VPN Relay Extension
Cisco SSL VPN Relay Extension is a Chrome extension that provides a captive portal and clientless remote access to Cisco SSL VPN, Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client, and Cisco AnyConnect Mobile VPN. It also offers an AnyConnect web client.
The extension functions in tandem with Cisco SSL VPN, AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client, and AnyConnect Mobile VPN by acting as a relay and connecting users to the Cisco SSL VPN.
The Cisco SSL VPN Relay Extension is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems.
It’s compatible with Chrome, Firefox, and Internet Explorer browsers.
Benefits of Using the Software
The Cisco SSL VPN Relay Extension is a secure and simple way to access any network resources from any device. It works with Cisco’s SSL VPN and Remote Access VPN to provide secure remote access to your network, including site-to-site VPNs.
The extension works like a standard VPN client, with users being prompted to enter a username and password when connecting to a VPN server.
It also provides many of the features you would see on a normal VPN client, including support for IKEv2, IPsec, and OpenVPN protocols.
The extension not only works with Cisco’s SSL VPN, but also Remote Access VPN, which allows users to remotely connect to their network from a non-secure WiFi hotspot.
Installation Requirements
To use the extension, you’ll need to have Chrome OS running on your Chromebook. If you aren’t sure if your Chromebook can run Chrome OS, follow our guide here.
ChromeOS 62 or later is required. The extension will end up installing as a .apk file, so you’ll need an Android device to install the extension.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing the Extension
- Open the Chrome Web Store ( ).
- Search for “SSL VPN Relay” and click on “Add to Chrome”.
- After installing the extension, you’ll be prompted to “add a Cisco SSL VPN Relay”.
- Click “Add”.
- Enter the Cisco SSL VPN Relay details (username and password).
- Select the location where you want to connect.
- Enter the group name.
- Click “Connect”.
- You’re now connected to the SSL VPN relay.
Using the Extension on a Mobile Device
The Cisco SSL VPN connection will work the same on Android and iOS devices as it does on computers.
With the extension installed, click on the 3-dot menu icon at the top right of the Chrome window and select “VPN.”
A new window called “VPN Connection” will appear. This is where you can select the Cisco SSL VPN connection you created when you installed the extension.
The Cisco SSL VPN connection will now be visible at the top of the Chrome window.
The default credentials for the Cisco SSL VPN connection are username: admin and Password: cisco.
Once you have entered your credentials, click “Connect.”
Troubleshooting Common Issues With the Extension
While the Cisco SSL VPN Relay Extension is of good quality, there are a few things that can go wrong.
Here are some of the most common issues with the extension and how to resolve them.
- The extension won’t load at all.
- The extension displays an error.
- The extension fails to open.
- Check the status of your antivirus. Some antivirus apps may block the extension.
- Refresh the Chrome browser.
- Restart your computer.
- Clear your browser’s cache and cookies.
- Clear your browsing history.
- Disable your antivirus.
- Type chrome:extensions in the address bar of Chrome.
- Click on the “Show All Extensions” button.
- Find the extension you want to uninstall and click it.
- Click “Uninstall” and confirm your action.
- Once the extension is uninstalled, restart Google Chrome.
- Type chrome:extensions in the address bar of Chrome.
- Click “Add-ons” in the extensions dashboard.
- Click the “Add-ons” button in the “Extensions” section.
- Click the “Show Installations” button.
- Find the extension you want to reinstall and click it.
- Click “Install” and confirm your action.
- Once the extension is installed, restart Google Chrome.
Here are the steps you should take to resolve these issues.
If the issue still persists, try uninstalling and reinstalling the extension.
Here are the steps to follow.
FAQ
How Do I Add Cisco SSL VPN Relay Extension to Chrome?
Step 1: Click the “Launcher” icon on your Google Chromebook desktop. Step 2: Locate and then open the “Web Store.” Step 3: Search for Cisco AnyConnect using the search bar. Step 4) Click on the Add to Chrome button in order to install Cisco AnyConnect client onto your Chromebook.
Does AnyConnect Work With Chromebook?
Google Chrome OS Supported Devices AnyConnect for Android Officially supported for all Chromebooks. AnyConnect for Android strongly recommended for an optimal AnyConnect experience with ChromeOS.
How Do I Install a VPN on Chromebook?
Select the time at the bottom right Select Settings Select Add connection in the section “Network”. Select Add next to “Add built in VPN” Fill in the information in the box that opens. Select Connect
What Browser Does Cisco AnyConnect Use?
Open a web browser from the desktop (Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Microsoft Edge, Internet Explorer). In this example, Google Chrome will be used. In the address bar, type in vpn01.cu.edu. The login page will open. Login using your CU System Username or Password.
How Do I Add SSL VPN URL to Trusted Sites?
Navigate to Tools->Internet Options in Internet Explorer Click on Trusted sites after you have selected the Security tab. Click on the Sites link. Click on the Add button to enter the URL for the SSL VPN that you are using. Click Close and then click OK.
Hopefully this guide for cisco ssl vpn relay extension for chrome was helpful for you.