CVE-2016-10184 in DWR-932B
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered on the D-Link DWR-932B router. qmiweb allows file reading with ..%2f traversal.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/16/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10184 affects the D-Link DWR-932B router, representing a critical path traversal flaw in the qmiweb component that enables unauthorized file access. This issue stems from inadequate input validation within the web interface functionality, specifically in how the system processes directory traversal sequences. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to access files outside the intended directory structure through crafted requests containing the ..%2f sequence, which represents a double dot followed by a forward slash URL encoded. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of directory traversal attacks as defined by CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal. The affected D-Link router model presents a significant security risk as the qmiweb component serves as an entry point for web-based administrative functions and system information access.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts HTTP requests that include the ..%2f sequence in file paths, effectively allowing them to traverse up the directory hierarchy and access sensitive system files that should normally be restricted. This particular implementation flaw in the D-Link router's web server component demonstrates a failure to properly sanitize user input before processing file access requests. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it enables access to system configuration files, authentication credentials, and potentially sensitive operational data that could be used for further exploitation or system compromise. Attackers could leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to router administration interfaces, extract network configuration details, or obtain information that could facilitate additional attacks within the local network environment. The nature of this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 which covers application layer protocol: DNS, and T1068 which addresses exploit for privilege escalation, as the initial access through path traversal could lead to broader system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it fundamentally undermines the security boundaries of the router's web interface. Network administrators who rely on the D-Link DWR-932B for secure network management face significant risks when this vulnerability remains unpatched, as it creates an attack surface that allows for unauthorized access to critical network infrastructure components. The vulnerability affects not only the confidentiality of system information but also potentially compromises the integrity and availability of the network services provided by the router. Organizations using this specific router model should consider the possibility of lateral movement within their networks if attackers successfully exploit this weakness, as the compromised router could serve as a foothold for further attacks against internal systems. The exploitation of such vulnerabilities often leads to broader security incidents that can affect multiple network segments and compromise the overall security posture of an organization's network infrastructure. Given that this vulnerability affects a consumer-grade router with web administration capabilities, it represents a significant risk to both personal and enterprise network environments where such devices are commonly deployed without proper security hardening measures.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate firmware updates from D-Link to address the path traversal flaw in the qmiweb component. Network administrators should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of affected devices to untrusted networks. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary web services, implementing strong authentication mechanisms, and regularly monitoring network traffic for suspicious activity that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in network device development, particularly in components that handle user-provided data for file access operations. Organizations should also consider implementing network intrusion detection systems that can identify and alert on path traversal attack patterns, and establish regular security assessment procedures to identify similar vulnerabilities in other network infrastructure components. The remediation process should involve comprehensive testing of updated firmware to ensure that the patch properly addresses the vulnerability without introducing new issues that could affect router functionality or network stability.