CVE-2013-3073 in WNDR4700
Summary
by MITRE
A Symlink Traversal vulnerability exists in NETGEAR Centria WNDR4700 Firmware 1.0.0.34.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/15/2019
The CVE-2013-3073 vulnerability represents a critical symlink traversal flaw within the NETGEAR Centria WNDR4700 wireless router firmware version 1.0.0.34. This vulnerability falls under the broader category of path traversal attacks and specifically manifests as a symbolic link manipulation issue that allows unauthorized access to restricted system resources. The flaw occurs in the firmware's handling of symbolic links during file operations, creating an opportunity for attackers to bypass normal access controls and gain elevated privileges within the device's file system. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in network infrastructure devices as it can provide attackers with deep access to the underlying operating system and configuration files.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper validation of symbolic link paths within the router's firmware update and configuration management processes. When the system processes symbolic links during file operations, it fails to properly sanitize or validate the target paths, allowing attackers to craft malicious symbolic links that point to sensitive system files or directories outside the intended scope. This weakness enables attackers to traverse the file system hierarchy and potentially access administrative interfaces, configuration files, or even execute arbitrary code on the device. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-22 Path Traversal issue, which is a well-documented weakness in software systems where insufficient input validation allows attackers to access files or directories outside the intended scope. The specific nature of this flaw in the NETGEAR firmware suggests a lack of proper path normalization and access control enforcement mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-3073 extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it provides attackers with a potential foothold for further exploitation within network environments. Once an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they can potentially gain administrative access to the router, allowing them to modify network configurations, redirect traffic, or establish persistent access points within the network. This capability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter, where attackers can leverage compromised devices to execute commands, and T1021.001 Remote Services, where network devices can be used as attack vectors. The vulnerability can be particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where wireless routers serve as gateways to internal networks, as it allows attackers to pivot from the perimeter into the internal network infrastructure. The impact is further amplified by the fact that many organizations rely on default configurations or fail to update firmware regularly, making vulnerable devices common targets for exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-3073 require immediate firmware updates from NETGEAR to address the symbolic link traversal vulnerability. Organizations should implement network segmentation to isolate critical infrastructure from wireless networks and ensure that router firmware is regularly updated with the latest security patches. Network administrators should also disable unnecessary services and features on wireless routers to minimize attack surface, particularly when implementing the principle of least privilege. Additionally, monitoring network traffic for suspicious activities and implementing proper access controls for administrative interfaces can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and path handling in embedded systems, as outlined in OWASP Top 10 and other security frameworks. Regular security assessments of network infrastructure devices and implementation of automated patch management processes are essential to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in other network equipment.