CVE-2013-6027 in D-Link
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in the RuntimeDiagnosticPing function in /bin/webs on D-Link DIR-100 routers might allow remote authenticated administrators to execute arbitrary commands via a long set/runtime/diagnostic/pingIp parameter to Tools/tools_misc.xgi.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/17/2024
The CVE-2013-6027 vulnerability represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw discovered in D-Link DIR-100 routers, specifically within the RuntimeDiagnosticPing function located in the /bin/webs binary component. This vulnerability exists in the web interface handling mechanism of the router's firmware, where the application fails to properly validate input parameters before processing them in memory. The flaw is particularly concerning because it affects the diagnostic tools section of the router's web management interface, making it accessible through the Tools/tools_misc.xgi script that processes user-supplied parameters.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking in the RuntimeDiagnosticPing function, which processes the set/runtime/diagnostic/pingIp parameter. When an authenticated administrator sends a maliciously crafted request containing an excessively long pingIp parameter, the application writes data beyond the allocated stack buffer space, potentially overwriting adjacent memory locations including return addresses and function pointers. This classic buffer overflow condition creates an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by attackers who have already gained administrative access to the router's web interface. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, which directly enables code execution through memory corruption techniques.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides a pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the affected router with the privileges of the web server process. Since the vulnerability requires authentication to exploit, it represents a privilege escalation vector rather than a direct remote code execution vulnerability. However, the implications remain severe because it allows an attacker who has already compromised administrative credentials to gain complete control over the router's functionality, potentially enabling them to modify network configurations, redirect traffic, or establish persistent access points. This vulnerability effectively undermines the security of the router's management interface and can be exploited to compromise the entire network infrastructure controlled by the device.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-6027 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The most effective immediate solution involves applying the vendor-provided firmware update that patches the buffer overflow condition in the RuntimeDiagnosticPing function. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access control measures to limit administrative access to only trusted personnel and systems. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and proper bounds checking in web applications, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual parameter lengths in web interface requests, particularly those targeting diagnostic functions, as this could indicate exploitation attempts. Regular firmware updates and security assessments remain crucial for maintaining router security, as this vulnerability highlights the ongoing need for robust software security practices in embedded networking devices.