CVE-2017-15625 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-olmode variable in the pptp_client.lua file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/22/2019
The vulnerability CVE-2017-15625 affects TP-Link wireless routers and access points including models from the WVR, WAR, and ER series. This represents a critical command injection flaw that enables authenticated remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected devices. The vulnerability specifically resides within the pptp_client.lua file where the new-olmode variable is improperly handled, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by malicious actors with administrative credentials.
The technical flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the device's web interface configuration handling. When administrators configure PPTP client settings through the web management interface, the system fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input passed to the new-olmode parameter. This allows attackers to inject malicious commands that get executed with the privileges of the web server process, typically running with administrative privileges on the device. The vulnerability is classified as a command injection flaw under CWE-77 and represents a direct path to remote code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with complete control over affected devices. Once exploited, attackers can establish persistent access, modify network configurations, intercept traffic, and potentially use the compromised device as a pivot point for attacking internal network resources. The vulnerability affects devices that support PPTP client functionality, which is commonly used for remote access VPN connections in enterprise and home network environments. This creates a significant risk for organizations relying on TP-Link devices for network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate firmware updates from TP-Link to address the command injection vulnerability. Network administrators should also implement network segmentation to limit access to administrative interfaces and enforce strict access controls using multi-factor authentication. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1021.001 for remote services. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all affected devices and ensure proper network monitoring is in place to detect potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input validation controls can help prevent similar injection attacks in other network components.