CVE-2014-7269 in RT-AC56S
Summary
by MITRE
ASUS JAPAN RT-AC87U routers with firmware 3.0.0.4.378.3754 and earlier, RT-AC68U routers with firmware 3.0.0.4.376.3715 and earlier, RT-AC56S routers with firmware 3.0.0.4.376.3715 and earlier, RT-N66U routers with firmware 3.0.0.4.376.3715 and earlier, and RT-N56U routers with firmware 3.0.0.4.376.3715 and earlier allow remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary OS commands via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/08/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-7269 represents a critical remote command execution flaw affecting multiple ASUS router models including the RT-AC87U, RT-AC68U, RT-AC56S, RT-N66U, and RT-N56U series. This vulnerability exists within the firmware implementations of these networking devices, specifically versions up to and including the mentioned firmware releases. The flaw allows authenticated remote attackers to execute arbitrary operating system commands on the affected devices, potentially enabling full system compromise and unauthorized access to network infrastructure. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that it requires only authentication, which is typically achieved through legitimate administrative access credentials, making it particularly dangerous in environments where router administration is performed over untrusted networks.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the router's web interface handling mechanisms. Attackers can exploit unspecified vectors to inject malicious commands that bypass normal security controls, allowing them to execute arbitrary code on the underlying operating system. This type of vulnerability typically falls under CWE-77, which describes "Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command ('Command Injection')", and may also relate to CWE-94, "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')". The exploitation process likely involves manipulating parameters within HTTP requests sent to the router's web administration interface, where insufficient validation permits command injection attacks to succeed.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-7269 extends far beyond simple unauthorized access, as compromised routers can serve as entry points for broader network attacks. Once an attacker gains command execution capabilities, they can modify router configurations, redirect network traffic, install malware, or use the device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the local network. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise and home networks where ASUS routers are deployed, potentially exposing sensitive data, enabling man-in-the-middle attacks, or allowing attackers to establish persistent backdoors. The attack surface is further expanded by the fact that these devices are commonly accessible from the internet, making them attractive targets for automated exploitation campaigns. Organizations using affected firmware versions face significant risk of network infiltration and data breaches.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-7269 primarily involve immediate firmware updates from ASUS, which would address the command injection vulnerabilities in the affected router models. Network administrators should also implement strict access controls including strong authentication mechanisms, network segmentation, and monitoring of router administration activities. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should consider disabling remote administration features when not required and ensure that all router management interfaces are properly secured with strong passwords. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of keeping network infrastructure firmware updated and following security best practices such as those outlined in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly in the context of network infrastructure security where the compromise of core devices can lead to widespread system compromise.