CVE-2014-2962 in N150
Summary
by MITRE
Absolute path traversal vulnerability in the webproc cgi module on the Belkin N150 F9K1009 v1 router with firmware before 1.00.08 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a full pathname in the getpage parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/03/2024
The CVE-2014-2962 vulnerability represents a critical absolute path traversal flaw within the webproc cgi module of Belkin N150 F9K1009 v1 routers running firmware versions prior to 1.00.08. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-22 category, which specifically addresses path traversal attacks that allow attackers to access files outside the intended directory structure. The flaw exists in the web-based management interface of the router, specifically within the cgi module responsible for processing web requests. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious requests that include full pathnames in the getpage parameter, enabling them to bypass normal access controls and retrieve sensitive files from the device's file system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the webproc cgi module. When the router processes web requests containing the getpage parameter, it fails to properly sanitize or validate the input before using it to construct file paths. This lack of proper input filtering allows attackers to manipulate the file path traversal mechanism and access arbitrary files on the device. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it enables remote code execution and data exfiltration without requiring authentication, making it a severe threat to network security. The affected firmware versions lack proper access controls and file system boundaries, allowing unauthorized users to navigate the file system beyond intended restrictions.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-2962 extends far beyond simple information disclosure. Attackers can access sensitive configuration files, authentication credentials, and potentially system binaries that could be used to escalate privileges or gain complete control over the router. The vulnerability affects the router's web management interface, which typically runs with elevated privileges, making the potential for compromise significantly higher. Network administrators may find that attackers can extract firmware images, configuration files containing passwords, and other sensitive data that could be used to launch further attacks against the network. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213.002 for credential access and T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage, as it enables unauthorized access to router management interfaces and configuration data.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-2962 primarily focus on firmware updates and network segmentation. The most effective solution involves upgrading the router firmware to version 1.00.08 or later, which includes proper input validation and path traversal protection mechanisms. Organizations should implement network monitoring to detect anomalous traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly requests containing unusual path specifications in web parameters. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to router management interfaces from untrusted networks, limiting the attack surface. Additionally, implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify and block malicious requests containing absolute path traversal sequences provides an additional layer of protection. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices, as defined by OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines, emphasizing the need for robust sanitization of user inputs in web applications and network devices.