CVE-2017-15622 in WVR
Summary
by MITRE
TP-Link WVR, WAR and ER devices allow remote authenticated administrators to execute arbitrary commands via command injection in the new-mppeencryption variable in the pptp_client.lua file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/22/2019
The vulnerability CVE-2017-15622 represents a critical command injection flaw affecting TP-Link WVR WAR and ER series devices that operate within the telecommunications and networking infrastructure landscape. This vulnerability specifically targets the pptp_client.lua file where the new-mppeencryption variable becomes a vector for malicious command execution. The flaw exists within the device management interface that accepts administrative credentials for authentication, creating a scenario where authenticated users can escalate their privileges to execute arbitrary system commands remotely. This presents a significant security risk as it allows attackers who have gained administrative access to potentially compromise the entire network infrastructure.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the command execution pipeline of the affected TP-Link devices. When the new-mppeencryption variable is processed within the pptp_client.lua script, the system fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input, allowing malicious payloads to be interpreted as system commands rather than benign configuration parameters. This represents a classic command injection vulnerability that aligns with CWE-77 and CWE-88 categories, where user-controllable data flows directly into shell commands without proper escaping or filtering mechanisms. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and leverages the trust relationship between the authenticated administrator and the device's management interface.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates a severe risk for organizations relying on TP-Link WVR WAR and ER devices for network security and connectivity. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the administrative account, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or disruption of network services. The remote execution capability means that attackers do not require physical access to the devices, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where network devices are exposed to untrusted networks. This vulnerability can enable lateral movement within networks and may facilitate further attacks on connected systems through the compromised device.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including applying vendor-provided security patches and firmware updates to address the command injection vulnerability in affected TP-Link devices. Network segmentation and access control measures should be enhanced to limit administrative access to only necessary personnel and systems. Monitoring and logging of administrative activities should be strengthened to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of input validation and secure coding practices, as outlined in the OWASP Top 10 and NIST Cybersecurity Framework guidelines. Additionally, implementing network intrusion detection systems and regular security assessments can help identify and prevent exploitation attempts. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter, specifically targeting the use of command-line interfaces for malicious purposes, emphasizing the need for comprehensive endpoint security measures and privilege management protocols.