CVE-2018-6941 in NAT32
Summary
by MITRE
A /shell?cmd= CSRF issue exists in the HTTPD component of NAT32 v2.2 Build 22284 devices that can be exploited for Remote Code Execution in conjunction with XSS.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/16/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-6941 represents a critical security flaw in the NAT32 v2.2 Build 22284 device firmware affecting the HTTPD component. This issue manifests as a cross-site request forgery vulnerability that operates through the /shell?cmd= endpoint, creating a dangerous attack vector that can be exploited for remote code execution. The flaw exists within the web interface of network address translation devices, which are commonly deployed in enterprise and home networking environments to manage internet connectivity and firewall rules.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation and authorization mechanisms within the HTTPD web server component. When a malicious actor crafts a specially crafted HTTP request containing shell command parameters through the /shell?cmd= endpoint, the system fails to properly authenticate or validate the request source. This allows an attacker to execute arbitrary commands on the underlying operating system without proper authorization, effectively bypassing the device's security controls. The vulnerability specifically targets the command execution functionality exposed through the web interface, making it particularly dangerous for network infrastructure devices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it enables complete remote code execution on affected devices. Attackers can leverage this flaw to gain full administrative control over the NAT32 device, potentially leading to network infiltration, data exfiltration, or disruption of network services. The combination with XSS capabilities amplifies the threat landscape as attackers can first establish a foothold through cross-site scripting and then escalate privileges to execute arbitrary code. This dual vulnerability creates a particularly dangerous scenario where an attacker can establish persistent access and potentially move laterally within the network. The attack surface is further expanded due to the nature of network devices that often require remote management access, making them attractive targets for adversaries seeking to establish persistent network footholds.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-6941 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from the vendor to address the underlying CSRF and command execution flaws. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to management interfaces and restrict administrative privileges to trusted users only. The implementation of web application firewalls and input validation controls can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Additionally, network monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous command execution patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. According to CWE standards, this vulnerability relates to CWE-352 Cross-Site Request Forgery and CWE-78 Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command, while ATT&CK framework classification would place this under T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1071.5 Application Layer Protocol. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar flaws in network infrastructure devices, as this vulnerability demonstrates how seemingly minor authentication bypasses can result in complete system compromise.