CVE-2013-6343 in Rt-n56u
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in web.c in httpd on the ASUS RT-N56U and RT-AC66U routers with firmware 3.0.0.4.374_979 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via the (1) apps_name or (2) apps_flag parameter to APP_Installation.asp.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/24/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2013-6343 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw in the httpd web server component of ASUS RT-N56U and RT-AC66U router firmware versions 3.0.0.4.374_979. This issue resides within the web.c file and affects the application installation functionality through the APP_Installation.asp interface. The vulnerability manifests when processing two specific parameters: apps_name and apps_flag, making it particularly dangerous as it provides multiple attack vectors for remote code execution. The affected devices operate with embedded web server software that fails to properly validate input lengths before copying data into fixed-size buffers, creating opportunities for attackers to overwrite adjacent memory regions.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a classic buffer overflow pattern where insufficient input validation allows attackers to craft malicious payloads that exceed the allocated buffer space. When the httpd service processes the apps_name or apps_flag parameters through APP_Installation.asp, it fails to implement proper bounds checking or string length validation. This deficiency enables attackers to inject data that overflows the designated buffer, potentially corrupting adjacent memory locations and allowing for the execution of arbitrary code. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which covers heap-based buffer overflow conditions, demonstrating the severity and potential impact of such memory corruption vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-6343 is significant as it enables remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to the router's operating system without requiring physical access or local credentials. Successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to install malicious software, modify network configurations, redirect traffic, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects network infrastructure devices that are often left unpatched due to their perceived low risk or because users are unaware of their existence. This creates a particularly dangerous scenario where routers serve as entry points for broader network attacks, potentially compromising entire corporate or residential networks. The attack surface is further extended by the fact that these routers are commonly deployed in home and small office environments where security monitoring is minimal.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-6343 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from ASUS, as the vendor has likely released patches addressing this specific vulnerability. Network administrators should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit potential lateral movement if a device is compromised. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and proper memory management in embedded systems, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter usage. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems to monitor for unusual traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Regular vulnerability assessments of network infrastructure devices are essential, particularly for legacy systems that may not receive regular security updates. The incident highlights the critical need for embedded device security practices that include proper buffer management, input sanitization, and regular security auditing to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future.