CVE-2013-5220 in HOTBOX router
Summary
by MITRE
goform/login on the HOT HOTBOX router with software 2.1.11 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (device crash) via crafted HTTP POST data.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/29/2024
The CVE-2013-5220 vulnerability affects the HOT HOTBOX router running software version 2.1.11 and represents a significant denial of service weakness in the device's web management interface. This vulnerability specifically targets the goform/login endpoint which handles authentication requests through HTTP POST methods, making it accessible to remote attackers without requiring any authentication credentials. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and buffer handling within the router's web server implementation, allowing malicious actors to craft specially formatted HTTP POST requests that trigger memory corruption or stack overflow conditions during the authentication process. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which addresses stack-based buffer overflow scenarios, both of which are common attack vectors in embedded networking devices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption as it can cause complete device crashes and require manual intervention for recovery. When exploited, the crafted HTTP POST data forces the router's web server process to terminate unexpectedly, resulting in a complete denial of service condition that affects all network services provided by the device including internet connectivity, local network access, and any configured firewall rules or Quality of Service settings. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can trigger the denial of service from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or network proximity to the device. This characteristic makes it particularly dangerous in environments where routers are exposed to public networks or where multiple devices are managed through a centralized interface. The attack can be executed through simple HTTP client tools or automated scripts, making it accessible to attackers with minimal technical expertise and increasing the likelihood of widespread exploitation.
Network security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically under the T1499 technique for Network Denial of Service, which encompasses attacks that disrupt network services and make systems unavailable to legitimate users. The vulnerability also relates to T1190, which covers exploits for execution through the use of a legitimate login session, although in this case the exploitation occurs before authentication is completed. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including network segmentation to isolate affected routers from critical network segments, disabling unnecessary web management interfaces when not actively needed, and applying firmware updates once available from the vendor. The recommended approach for device administrators includes monitoring network traffic for suspicious HTTP POST patterns targeting the affected endpoint, implementing intrusion detection systems with signatures for this specific vulnerability, and establishing regular firmware update procedures to address known security weaknesses in embedded network devices. Additionally, network administrators should consider disabling the web management interface entirely if it is not required for operational purposes, as this reduces the attack surface and eliminates the risk of exploitation through this particular vulnerability.