CVE-2019-20641 in RAX40
Summary
by MITRE
NETGEAR RAX40 devices before 1.0.3.64 are affected by lack of access control at the function level.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-20614 affects NETGEAR RAX40 wireless routers and is classified as a weakness in access control mechanisms. This issue stems from insufficient function-level access control measures within the device firmware, creating a significant security gap that allows unauthorized users to access administrative functions without proper authentication. The affected devices operate with firmware versions prior to 1.0.3.64, indicating that this represents a known weakness that was subsequently patched by the vendor. The vulnerability resides in the router's web interface and command execution capabilities, where administrative functions remain accessible to unauthenticated users.
This flaw represents a critical failure in the principle of least privilege and proper authentication mechanisms, aligning with CWE-284 which addresses improper access control. The technical implementation lacks proper authorization checks at the function level, meaning that users who can reach the device's management interface can execute administrative commands without presenting valid credentials. This type of vulnerability enables attackers to perform sensitive operations such as changing network configurations, modifying firewall rules, updating firmware, or accessing sensitive system information. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it affects the core management functionality of the router, which is typically protected by strong authentication mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it allows attackers to gain complete administrative control over affected devices without requiring any valid credentials. This creates a persistent backdoor that can be exploited by remote attackers, enabling them to modify network settings, redirect traffic, install malware, or establish persistent access to the local network. The vulnerability can be exploited through the web-based management interface, making it accessible to anyone who can reach the device's IP address and web interface. This represents a significant risk for enterprise and residential networks, as compromised routers can serve as entry points for broader network infiltration, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1021.001 for remote services and T1059 for command and scripting interpreters.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate firmware updates to version 1.0.3.64 or later, which addresses the access control weakness. Network administrators should also implement additional security measures including disabling remote management access, configuring strong firewall rules, and monitoring for unauthorized access attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper access control implementation and highlights the need for regular security assessments of network infrastructure devices. Organizations should also consider network segmentation and monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts, as the lack of proper authentication mechanisms creates a persistent risk that can be exploited for extended periods without detection.