CVE-2015-6024 in HSPA 3G10WVE
Summary
by MITRE
ping.cgi in NetCommWireless HSPA 3G10WVE wireless routers with firmware before 3G10WVE-L101-S306ETS-C01_R05 allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in the DIA_IPADDRESS parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2015-6024 affects NetCommWireless HSPA 3G10WVE wireless routers running firmware versions prior to 3G10WVE-L101-S306ETS-C01_R05. This issue resides in the ping.cgi web interface component which processes network diagnostic requests from authenticated users. The flaw represents a classic command injection vulnerability that allows attackers who have gained authentication credentials to execute arbitrary system commands on the affected device. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the DIA_IPADDRESS parameter is manipulated with shell metacharacters, enabling malicious command execution within the router's operating environment.
This vulnerability falls under CWE-77 which defines improper neutralization of special elements used in a command to execute arbitrary commands or access unauthorized resources. The technical implementation flaw occurs in the web application's input validation and sanitization mechanisms where user-supplied data from the DIA_IPADDRESS parameter is directly incorporated into system commands without proper sanitization. The affected router's firmware processes this parameter through shell execution functions, creating a path for attackers to inject malicious shell commands that get executed with the privileges of the web application process. The authentication requirement means that an attacker must first obtain valid credentials to exploit this vulnerability, but once achieved, the impact extends to full system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it provides remote authenticated attackers with complete control over the affected wireless router. Attackers can execute arbitrary commands with the same privileges as the web interface, potentially gaining access to the underlying operating system, modifying network configurations, accessing stored credentials, or establishing persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects network infrastructure devices that are often deployed in residential and small office environments, making them attractive targets for attackers seeking to establish footholds in networks or to conduct further reconnaissance and lateral movement activities. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-6024 should prioritize immediate firmware updates to the latest available versions from NetComm Wireless. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to isolate these devices from critical network segments and enforce strict access controls limiting administrative access to only authorized personnel. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual command execution patterns or unauthorized configuration changes. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input validation controls can provide additional defense-in-depth measures. The vulnerability highlights the importance of regular firmware updates and proper input validation in embedded network devices, emphasizing that even authenticated access can lead to complete system compromise when proper security controls are not in place.