CVE-2017-15623 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-enable variable in the pptp_server.lua file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/22/2019
The vulnerability CVE-2017-15623 affects TP-Link WVR, WAR, and ER series network devices, representing a critical command injection flaw that enables remote authenticated administrators to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This vulnerability resides within the pptp_server.lua file where the new-enable variable is processed without proper input validation or sanitization, creating an exploitable path for malicious command execution. The flaw specifically targets the Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP) server implementation within these enterprise networking devices, making it particularly dangerous for organizations relying on these appliances for remote access and network connectivity.
From a technical perspective, this vulnerability manifests as a classic command injection vulnerability classified under CWE-77, which occurs when user-supplied input is directly incorporated into system commands without adequate sanitization. The new-enable variable in pptp_server.lua serves as the attack vector where malicious payloads can be injected and subsequently executed with the privileges of the web server process. This type of vulnerability allows attackers who have already gained administrative access to escalate their privileges and execute arbitrary system commands, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple command execution as it can be leveraged to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or disrupt network operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-15623 is severe for organizations utilizing affected TP-Link devices, as it provides attackers with a direct path to execute arbitrary commands on network infrastructure. This vulnerability can be exploited by authenticated users with administrative privileges, making it particularly dangerous in environments where administrative access is compromised through credential theft or social engineering attacks. The attack surface is significant given that these devices are commonly deployed in enterprise environments where they serve as critical network infrastructure components. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and script injection further emphasizes its potential for lateral movement and privilege escalation within compromised networks, as attackers can use the executed commands to discover other vulnerable systems and expand their foothold.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-15623 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from TP-Link to address the command injection flaw in the pptp_server.lua file. Organizations must implement strict access controls and privilege management to limit administrative access to only essential personnel, as the vulnerability requires authenticated administrative privileges to exploit. Network segmentation and monitoring solutions should be deployed to detect suspicious command execution patterns and unauthorized administrative activities. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input validation measures can help prevent malicious payloads from reaching the vulnerable code paths. Security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments of all network infrastructure to identify potentially affected devices and ensure proper patch management procedures are in place to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future.