CVE-2017-8078 in TL-SG108E
Summary
by MITRE
On the TP-Link TL-SG108E 1.0, the upgrade process can be requested remotely without authentication (httpupg.cgi with a parameter called cmd). This affects the 1.1.2 Build 20141017 Rel.50749 firmware.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/21/2020
The TP-Link TL-SG108E 1.0 switch firmware version 1.1.2 Build 20141017 Rel.50749 contains a critical authentication bypass vulnerability in its remote upgrade functionality. This flaw resides in the httpupg.cgi script which accepts a cmd parameter that can trigger firmware upgrade operations without proper authentication mechanisms. The vulnerability represents a significant security weakness that allows unauthorized remote attackers to initiate firmware updates on the device, potentially enabling complete system compromise and unauthorized access to the network infrastructure. This issue falls under CWE-287 which addresses improper authentication vulnerabilities, specifically targeting the absence of proper access controls for administrative functions. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it exposes the device's firmware upgrade interface to remote exploitation without requiring any credentials, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking to gain persistent access to network equipment.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the design flaw in the httpupg.cgi script which does not validate user authentication before processing upgrade commands. When an attacker sends a request to the upgrade endpoint with a cmd parameter, the system processes the command regardless of whether the requester has proper authorization. This represents a classic case of insufficient access control where administrative functions are exposed without proper authentication checks, allowing any remote user to potentially manipulate the device's firmware state. The attack vector is straightforward and requires minimal technical expertise, as it only involves sending a properly formatted HTTP request to the vulnerable endpoint. The absence of authentication validation creates a direct path for privilege escalation and system compromise, as firmware updates can potentially be used to install malicious code or alter device configuration in ways that persist across reboots.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited for various malicious activities. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could install backdoors, modify network configurations, or even replace the legitimate firmware with malicious versions that provide ongoing access to the compromised device. This represents a significant risk to network security since network switches serve as critical infrastructure components that control traffic flow and connectivity within local networks. The vulnerability affects the device's integrity and availability, potentially allowing attackers to disrupt network operations or create unauthorized access points. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, as the attacker can leverage the upgrade functionality to execute arbitrary commands or code on the device. The exposure of this interface also violates fundamental security principles of least privilege and defense in depth.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action to address the authentication bypass issue. Network administrators should prioritize updating the firmware to versions that properly implement authentication controls for upgrade functions, as TP-Link has likely released patches addressing this specific vulnerability. The recommended approach includes implementing network segmentation to isolate critical network infrastructure devices, deploying network access controls to restrict access to administrative interfaces, and monitoring for unauthorized access attempts to the upgrade endpoints. Security teams should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify attempts to access the vulnerable httpupg.cgi endpoint. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary services, implementing strong access controls for administrative interfaces, and establishing regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar authentication bypass issues in other network equipment. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous firmware update activities and alert security personnel to potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper authentication mechanisms in network infrastructure devices and serves as a reminder of the critical need to maintain current firmware versions and implement robust security controls around administrative functions.