CVE-2017-14413 in DIR-850L
Summary
by MITRE
D-Link DIR-850L REV. A (with firmware through FW114WWb07_h2ab_beta1) devices have XSS in the action parameter to htdocs/web/wpsacts.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/15/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-14413 affects D-Link DIR-850L REV. A wireless routers running firmware versions up to FW114WWb07_h2ab_beta1. This issue represents a cross-site scripting vulnerability that exists within the web-based management interface of the device, specifically in the handling of the action parameter within the htdocs/web/wpsacts.php script. The flaw allows an attacker to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users, potentially compromising the security of the network and the devices connected to it.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the web application layer of the router's firmware. When the device processes requests containing the action parameter in the wpsacts.php script, it fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into dynamic web content. This weakness creates an environment where malicious actors can craft specially formatted requests that, when executed by a victim's browser, will execute arbitrary JavaScript code within the context of the router's administrative interface. The vulnerability is classified as CWE-79 - Cross-site Scripting, which is a fundamental web application security flaw that has been consistently identified as one of the most prevalent and dangerous vulnerabilities in web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to the router's administrative functions. An attacker who successfully exploits this XSS vulnerability could potentially perform actions such as changing administrator passwords, modifying network settings, disabling security features, or even redirecting users to malicious websites. The attack surface is particularly concerning because the router's web interface is typically accessible from within the local network, making it possible for attackers who have gained access to the local network to exploit this vulnerability. Additionally, if the router is configured to allow remote administration, this vulnerability could be exploited from outside the local network, potentially leading to complete network compromise.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1059.007 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript and T1071.004 - Application Layer Protocol: DNS, as attackers could leverage the XSS to execute JavaScript commands and potentially manipulate DNS settings. The vulnerability also represents a significant risk for privilege escalation attacks, as it could allow attackers to impersonate legitimate users within the router's management interface. Network defenders should consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring for unusual traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The recommended mitigations include applying the latest firmware updates from D-Link, which would contain proper input validation and sanitization measures. Additionally, network administrators should consider disabling unnecessary web management interfaces, implementing network access controls, and conducting regular security audits of network devices to identify similar vulnerabilities. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation in web applications and serves as a reminder that even network infrastructure devices are susceptible to common web application vulnerabilities when proper security measures are not implemented during development.