CVE-2011-5010 in SkyRouter
Summary
by MITRE
apps/a3/cfg_ethping.cgi in the Ctek SkyRouter 4200 and 4300 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in the PINGADDRESS parameter for a "u" action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/14/2024
The CVE-2011-5010 vulnerability represents a critical command injection flaw in the Ctek SkyRouter 4200 and 4300 network devices, specifically within the cfg_ethping.cgi web application component. This vulnerability resides in the applications directory structure under apps/a3/cfg_ethping.cgi and affects the device's web management interface. The flaw manifests when processing the PINGADDRESS parameter during a "u" action execution, creating an opportunity for remote attackers to manipulate the device's command processing capabilities. The vulnerability directly enables arbitrary code execution through the manipulation of shell metacharacters, making it a severe security risk for network infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the web application's parameter handling mechanism. When the system processes the PINGADDRESS parameter without proper sanitization, it directly incorporates user-supplied data into shell command execution contexts. This primitive form of command injection allows attackers to append shell metacharacters such as semicolons, pipes, or other command separators that enable the execution of arbitrary system commands. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and exploits the device's underlying operating system's shell processing capabilities, making it particularly dangerous as it bypasses typical network security controls.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-5010 extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected network devices. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute system commands with the privileges of the web application user, typically root or administrative privileges. This level of access enables comprehensive network reconnaissance, data exfiltration, modification of network configurations, and potential use as a pivot point for attacks on other network segments. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access or network proximity to compromise the devices, making it particularly concerning for enterprise network security. Organizations using these routers face significant risk of unauthorized network access, potential data breaches, and disruption of network services.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-5010 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from Ctek, as this vulnerability affects specific device models and requires manufacturer-provided patches. Network administrators should implement network segmentation to limit access to these devices, restrict remote management access through firewalls, and monitor network traffic for suspicious command execution patterns. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-77 and CWE-88 categories related to command injection and improper input sanitization, and it maps to ATT&CK techniques involving command and control, privilege escalation, and execution of malicious code. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments of their network infrastructure to identify similar unpatched devices and implement robust input validation controls across all web applications to prevent similar injection vulnerabilities in the future.