CVE-2016-5366 in Honor WS851
Summary
by MITRE
Huawei Honor WS851 routers with software 1.1.21.1 and earlier allow remote attackers to modify configuration data via vectors related to a "file injection vulnerability," aka HWPSIRT-2016-05052.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/23/2022
The Huawei Honor WS851 router represents a significant security vulnerability classified as CVE-2016-5366, which affects firmware versions 1.1.21.1 and earlier. This vulnerability stems from a file injection flaw that enables remote attackers to manipulate the device's configuration data without requiring local access or authentication. The issue was identified and documented by Huawei's Product Security Incident Response Team under the reference HWPSIRT-2016-05052, highlighting the severity of unauthenticated remote configuration modification capabilities.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a flaw in how the router processes file upload operations within its web-based administration interface. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious file uploads that bypass normal validation mechanisms, allowing them to inject arbitrary configuration data into the router's persistent storage. This file injection vulnerability operates at the application layer and specifically targets the router's configuration management system, which typically handles firmware updates, network settings, and user access controls. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation and inadequate sanitization of user-supplied data, creating an attack surface that permits unauthorized modification of critical network infrastructure parameters.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple configuration changes, as it provides attackers with potential access to the underlying network infrastructure and could enable further exploitation. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could modify firewall rules, alter network routing configurations, change administrator credentials, or even inject malicious code into the router's operating system. This capability could lead to complete network compromise, as the router serves as a central point of control for the local network segment. The vulnerability affects not only individual devices but also poses risks to larger network deployments where multiple routers operate in similar configurations, potentially enabling attackers to establish persistent access points within network environments.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in relation to CWE-434, which addresses "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type," and the broader ATT&CK framework's techniques for privilege escalation and persistence. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including firmware updates to versions 1.1.22.1 or later, which contain patches addressing the file injection vulnerability. Network segmentation and access control measures should be strengthened to limit exposure, while regular security audits should verify that no unauthorized configuration changes have occurred. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of secure software development practices, particularly in embedded systems where firmware updates may be infrequent or difficult to deploy, and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of network infrastructure devices before deployment.