CVE-2018-11491 in HG100
Summary
by MITRE
ASUS HG100 devices with firmware before 1.05.12 allow unauthenticated access, leading to remote command execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/10/2020
The CVE-2018-11491 vulnerability affects ASUS HG100 network devices running firmware versions prior to 1.05.12, presenting a critical security flaw that enables unauthenticated remote command execution. This vulnerability resides in the device's web interface authentication mechanism, where insufficient validation allows attackers to bypass authentication entirely and execute arbitrary commands on the affected systems. The flaw represents a significant weakness in the device's security architecture, as it eliminates the fundamental requirement for user authentication before granting access to system functions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and authentication checks within the device's web management interface. Attackers can exploit this weakness by directly accessing specific administrative endpoints without providing valid credentials, thereby gaining full control over the device's operational capabilities. The vulnerability allows for arbitrary code execution, which means that malicious actors can install malware, modify device configurations, redirect network traffic, or use the compromised device as a pivot point for further attacks within the network. This type of vulnerability typically falls under CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically focusing on remote code execution capabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond the immediate device compromise, as it can serve as a launching point for broader network infiltration. Once an attacker gains access to the device, they can leverage it to perform reconnaissance activities, establish persistent backdoors, or use it as a command and control node for other compromised systems. The vulnerability affects devices deployed in enterprise and home network environments, potentially exposing sensitive network infrastructure to unauthorized access. Organizations using affected ASUS HG100 devices face significant risk of data breaches, network disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations, particularly in environments where strict security controls are required. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers can exploit it from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or prior knowledge of network credentials.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-11491 primarily involve immediate firmware updates to version 1.05.12 or later, which addresses the authentication bypass vulnerability. Network administrators should conduct comprehensive inventory checks to identify all affected devices and prioritize their remediation. Additional protective measures include implementing network segmentation to limit access to critical devices, disabling unnecessary services and ports, and deploying network monitoring solutions to detect suspicious activities. The vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security updates and proper device management practices, as well as the need for robust network security controls that can detect and prevent unauthorized access attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing zero-trust network architectures that assume no implicit trust and continuously validate access requests to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited.