CVE-2010-2261 in WAP54Gv3
Summary
by MITRE
Linksys WAP54Gv3 firmware 3.04.03 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in the (1) data2 and (2) data3 parameters to (a) Debug_command_page.asp and (b) debug.cgi.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/06/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-2261 affects Linksys WAP54Gv3 wireless access points running firmware versions 3.04.03 and earlier, representing a critical remote code execution flaw that exposes network infrastructure to severe cyber threats. This vulnerability resides within the web-based management interface of the device, specifically targeting two distinct attack vectors through the Debug_command_page.asp and debug.cgi web pages. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly filter or escape shell metacharacters submitted through the data2 and data3 parameters, creating an exploitable path for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary commands on the affected device.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with common web application security weaknesses classified under CWE-77 and CWE-94, which encompass improper neutralization of special elements used in commands and execution of untrusted code. The vulnerability operates through a classic command injection attack pattern where attacker-controlled input flows directly into system command execution contexts without proper sanitization. When an attacker submits malicious shell metacharacters such as semicolons, ampersands, or backticks through the vulnerable parameters, these inputs are processed by the underlying operating system without adequate filtering, allowing for arbitrary command execution with the privileges of the web server process. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it requires no authentication for exploitation, making it accessible to remote attackers who can leverage this vulnerability from outside the network perimeter.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected wireless access point and potentially the entire network segment it serves. Once exploited, attackers can modify network configurations, redirect traffic, establish persistent backdoors, or use the device as a pivot point for further attacks against internal network resources. The vulnerability particularly affects enterprise and small business environments where wireless infrastructure devices often lack proper network segmentation and monitoring controls. The exposed web interface creates an attack vector that can be easily automated through reconnaissance tools, making it attractive to both targeted attacks and automated scanning campaigns. Network administrators may remain unaware of exploitation attempts until significant damage has occurred, as the commands execute silently without generating obvious audit trail entries that would typically alert to malicious activity.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-2261 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from Linksys to address the root cause of the vulnerability, with particular attention to the specific firmware versions that contain patches. Organizations should implement network segmentation controls that isolate wireless infrastructure devices from critical internal systems, reducing the potential impact of successful exploitation. Web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring for suspicious parameter patterns and blocking known malicious payloads. Network administrators should disable unnecessary web management interfaces and restrict access through strict firewall rules that limit connections to trusted IP addresses only. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other network devices, as the same architectural flaws may exist in other vendors' products. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, emphasizing the need for comprehensive defensive measures that address both network and application-level security controls.