CVE-2011-4502 in 6114wg Router
Summary
by MITRE
The UPnP IGD implementation in Edimax EdiLinux on the Edimax BR-6104K with firmware before 3.25, Edimax 6114Wg, Canyon-Tech CN-WF512 with firmware 1.83, Canyon-Tech CN-WF514 with firmware 2.08, Sitecom WL-153 with firmware before 1.39, and Sweex LB000021 with firmware 3.15 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/08/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2011-4502 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Universal Plug and Play Internet Gateway Device implementation found in various wireless router models from manufacturers including Edimax, Canyon-Tech, Sitecom, and Sweex. This security weakness specifically affects firmware versions prior to 3.25 for the Edimax BR-6104K and similar devices from other vendors, creating a significant attack surface that allows malicious actors to gain unauthorized control over network infrastructure. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the UPnP IGD service, which is designed to facilitate automatic network configuration and port forwarding for devices connecting to home and small office networks.
The technical flaw manifests when the UPnP IGD implementation fails to properly sanitize user inputs received through the service, allowing attackers to inject shell metacharacters directly into command execution pathways. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-77 and CWE-94 categories, which specifically address command injection flaws and improper input validation respectively. The attack vector leverages the UPnP protocol's legitimate network management functions to bypass normal authentication mechanisms and execute arbitrary system commands with the privileges of the UPnP service itself. This means that remote attackers can potentially gain root access to the affected devices, enabling them to modify network configurations, install malicious software, or use the compromised routers as entry points for further attacks within the local network.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it fundamentally compromises the security posture of affected networks. Network administrators and end users who rely on these devices for internet connectivity face severe risks including data breaches, network infiltration, and potential use as botnet nodes for distributed denial-of-service attacks. The vulnerability affects multiple device models across different vendors, indicating a widespread issue within the embedded networking device ecosystem that was prevalent in the early 2010s. The attack surface is particularly concerning because UPnP services are often enabled by default on consumer and small business routers, making these devices vulnerable to exploitation without requiring specialized knowledge or tools. According to ATT&CK framework category T1072, this vulnerability maps directly to the use of remote services for initial access and privilege escalation within network environments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve firmware updates from manufacturers, which should be implemented immediately upon availability. Network segmentation and firewall rules that block UPnP traffic between internal networks and external internet connections can provide temporary protection, though this approach may impact legitimate network functionality. Device vendors should implement proper input sanitization and validation mechanisms in their UPnP implementations, following secure coding practices that prevent command injection attacks. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of network monitoring and intrusion detection systems that can identify unusual UPnP traffic patterns or unauthorized configuration changes, as these devices often operate with elevated privileges within network environments. Regular security assessments of network infrastructure should include verification of UPnP service configurations and firmware versions to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future.