CVE-2017-9243 in QWR-1104
Summary
by MITRE
Aries QWR-1104 Wireless-N Router with Firmware Version WRC.253.2.0913 has XSS on the Wireless Site Survey page, exploitable with the name of an access point.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/03/2020
The Aries QWR-1104 Wireless-N Router represents a significant cybersecurity vulnerability through its implementation of cross-site scripting on the Wireless Site Survey page. This particular weakness exists within firmware version WRC.253.2.0913 and demonstrates a critical flaw in input validation and output encoding practices. The vulnerability specifically manifests when an attacker can manipulate the access point name parameter, which then gets reflected back to the user without proper sanitization mechanisms. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-79, which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws that allow attackers to inject malicious client-side scripts into web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or session hijacking, as it provides attackers with a foothold for more sophisticated attacks within the network perimeter. When an attacker crafts a malicious access point name containing script code, this code executes in the context of a legitimate user's browser session, potentially enabling unauthorized access to router management interfaces, credential theft, or redirection to malicious sites. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the wireless site survey functionality, which is typically used by network administrators to analyze and configure wireless networks, making it a prime target for exploitation.
The exploitation vector requires minimal privileges and can be executed through social engineering or direct network access, making it particularly dangerous in environments where wireless network analysis is frequently performed. According to ATT&CK framework methodology, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for scripting and T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage, as attackers can leverage the reflected scripts to manipulate the router's web interface. The router's web interface becomes a conduit for malicious activities, potentially allowing attackers to modify wireless settings, access sensitive configuration data, or establish persistent access points within the network.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms at the application layer, ensuring that all user-supplied data is properly sanitized before being rendered in web pages. Network administrators should immediately update to firmware versions that address this vulnerability, as the manufacturer has likely released patches to correct the input validation issues. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls can limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, while regular security assessments and web application firewalls can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and regular penetration testing to identify similar issues in network infrastructure devices that may not receive the same level of security attention as traditional web applications.