CVE-2017-2142 in WN-G300R3
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in WN-G300R3 firmware Ver.1.03 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary OS commands via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/22/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-2142 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the WN-G300R3 wireless network gateway firmware version 1.03 and earlier. This security weakness resides in the device's firmware implementation and specifically affects the command execution mechanisms that govern how the router processes incoming network requests. The buffer overflow condition occurs when the device fails to properly validate input data length before copying it into fixed-size memory buffers, creating a scenario where malicious data can overwrite adjacent memory locations. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, which allows attackers to manipulate the program execution flow by overwriting return addresses and function pointers stored in memory. This particular flaw enables remote code execution capabilities without requiring any authentication or local access to the device, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary operating system commands directly on the affected router. This capability provides threat actors with complete control over the device's functionality, enabling them to modify network configurations, intercept traffic, redirect connections, or even establish persistent backdoors within the network infrastructure. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries can exploit this vulnerability from anywhere on the internet without needing physical proximity to the device, which significantly increases the attack surface and potential damage scope. Network administrators who rely on these devices for core infrastructure functions face substantial risk of complete network compromise, as the router serves as a gateway point for all network traffic and may be used to pivot attacks to internal network segments. The vulnerability affects devices that implement the WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) functionality and other network management protocols that process user inputs through unvalidated memory operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-2142 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from the manufacturer, as this vulnerability has been addressed in subsequent firmware releases. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of affected devices to external networks, while also deploying network monitoring solutions to detect anomalous traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The implementation of intrusion detection systems with signature-based detection capabilities can help identify known exploitation patterns associated with this vulnerability. Device vendors should consider implementing input validation controls and bounds checking mechanisms in their firmware development processes to prevent similar buffer overflow conditions from occurring in future releases. Security teams should also conduct comprehensive network inventories to identify all affected devices and establish remediation schedules that prioritize critical infrastructure components. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, as it allows adversaries to execute operating system commands directly on compromised devices, and T1566 for spearphishing with a malicious attachment, as attackers may use this vulnerability to establish initial access points within networks. Organizations should also consider implementing network access control lists and firewall rules to restrict communication with potentially compromised devices while maintaining necessary network functionality.