CVE-2016-1395 in RV110W
Summary
by MITRE
The web-based management interface on Cisco RV110W devices with firmware before 1.2.1.7, RV130W devices with firmware before 1.0.3.16, and RV215W devices with firmware before 1.3.0.8 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code as root via a crafted HTTP request, aka Bug ID CSCux82428.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/24/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-1395 represents a critical remote code execution flaw affecting Cisco small business wireless routers and security appliances. This vulnerability specifically impacts the web-based management interface of several Cisco RV series devices including the RV110W, RV130W, and RV215W models. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and improper handling of HTTP requests within the device's web management interface, creating a pathway for unauthenticated remote attackers to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code with root-level system access. The vulnerability was documented under Bug ID CSCux82428 and affects firmware versions prior to the specified patches, making it a significant concern for organizations relying on these network devices for their security infrastructure.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a carefully crafted HTTP request that triggers a buffer overflow or command injection flaw within the web interface's processing logic. When the affected device receives such a malformed request, it fails to properly sanitize the input before processing, allowing attackers to inject malicious commands that are then executed with the highest privileges available on the system. This privilege escalation mechanism enables attackers to gain complete control over the device, potentially allowing them to modify network configurations, establish backdoors, monitor network traffic, or use the compromised device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the network. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access or network credentials to exploit it, making it particularly dangerous for devices accessible from the internet.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple device compromise, as these routers often serve as critical network gateways and security appliances within small to medium business environments. When compromised, these devices can become part of botnets, facilitate man-in-the-middle attacks, or provide attackers with persistent access to internal network resources. The vulnerability affects the fundamental security posture of affected organizations, as these devices typically control network access and may be used to enforce security policies, manage firewall rules, or provide network segmentation. The root-level execution capability means that attackers can potentially modify the device's firmware, disable security features, or install persistent malware that could remain undetected for extended periods, creating long-term security risks for the entire network infrastructure.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigation strategies including firmware updates to the patched versions specified in Cisco's security advisory, network segmentation to isolate these devices from critical systems, and monitoring for suspicious network traffic patterns. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, Buffer Overflow, and CWE-78, Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command, while also mapping to ATT&CK techniques such as T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1068 Exploitation for Privilege Escalation. Network administrators should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts and establish baseline network behavior to detect anomalous activity that might indicate successful exploitation of this vulnerability.