CVE-2017-12943 in DIR-600
Summary
by MITRE
D-Link DIR-600 Rev Bx devices with v2.x firmware allow remote attackers to read passwords via a model/__show_info.php?REQUIRE_FILE= absolute path traversal attack, as demonstrated by discovering the admin password.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/30/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-12943 affects D-Link DIR-600 Rev Bx wireless routers running firmware version 2.x, representing a critical path traversal flaw that enables remote attackers to extract sensitive configuration data including administrative passwords. This vulnerability resides within the web interface of the affected devices and exploits a lack of proper input validation in the model/__show_info.php script, which processes the REQUIRE_FILE parameter without adequate sanitization. The flaw allows attackers to manipulate the REQUIRE_FILE parameter to traverse the file system and access files that should remain protected, including configuration files containing credentials and other sensitive information.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows a classic path traversal attack pattern where the attacker can manipulate the REQUIRE_FILE parameter to access arbitrary files on the device filesystem. The specific exploitation involves crafting a malicious URL that includes the absolute path traversal sequence, allowing access to the device's internal configuration files. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it enables attackers to obtain administrative credentials without requiring any local access or authentication, making it a significant security risk for network administrators who rely on these devices for network protection. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-79 Cross-Site Scripting, representing a combination of directory traversal and information disclosure weaknesses.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it provides attackers with complete administrative control over the affected routers. Once an attacker obtains the administrator password, they can modify network configurations, implement man-in-the-middle attacks, redirect traffic, and potentially establish persistent backdoors within the network infrastructure. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where these devices may be used as network gateways or as part of larger security infrastructures. The vulnerability affects the device's integrity and confidentiality, potentially allowing attackers to compromise the entire network segment behind the router. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1210 Lateral Movement and T1078 Valid Accounts, as it enables unauthorized access to network resources through compromised administrative credentials.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-12943 primarily focus on firmware updates from D-Link, which address the input validation flaws in the web interface components. Network administrators should immediately implement firmware upgrades to versions that contain patched code for the path traversal vulnerability. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can limit the potential damage from exploitation, while disabling unnecessary web management interfaces and restricting remote access to the device can reduce the attack surface. Security monitoring should include detection of suspicious web requests targeting the vulnerable script, and regular vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar issues in other network infrastructure components. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in embedded web applications, particularly those handling user-supplied parameters in network devices. Organizations should also consider implementing network access control lists to prevent unauthorized access to management interfaces and ensure that administrative credentials are properly secured and rotated regularly.