CVE-2019-20669 in RBR20
Summary
by MITRE
Certain NETGEAR devices are affected by stored XSS. This affects RBR20 before 2.3.5.26, RBS20 before 2.3.5.26, RBK20 before 2.3.5.26, RBR40 before 2.3.5.30, RBS40 before 2.3.5.30, RBK40 before 2.3.5.30, RBR50 before 2.3.5.30, RBS50 before 2.3.5.30, and RBK50 before 2.3.5.30.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/26/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2019-20669 represents a stored cross-site scripting flaw affecting multiple NETGEAR router models including RBR20, RBS20, RBK20, RBR40, RBS40, RBK40, RBR50, RBS50, and RBK50. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting attacks where malicious scripts are injected into web applications and then executed when users view the affected pages. The affected devices are all part of NETGEAR's business networking series, with firmware versions prior to the specified patches being susceptible to exploitation. These routers are commonly deployed in enterprise environments and small to medium businesses where they serve as critical network infrastructure components.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding within the web management interfaces of these devices. When administrators or users enter data through web forms or configuration parameters, the system fails to properly sanitize the input before storing it in the device's database or configuration files. This stored data is then later retrieved and displayed in web pages without adequate sanitization, creating an environment where malicious JavaScript code can be executed in the context of other users' browsers. The vulnerability specifically impacts the configuration management interfaces that allow users to set up network parameters, configure wireless settings, and manage device access controls.
The operational impact of this stored XSS vulnerability is significant and multifaceted. Attackers who can gain access to the router's web interface can inject malicious scripts that persist across sessions, potentially compromising all users who access the management interface. This could lead to session hijacking, credential theft, and unauthorized access to the network infrastructure. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects the management interfaces of network devices that are often accessible from within the local network, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges and gain deeper access to enterprise networks. The persistent nature of stored XSS means that the malicious code remains active until the affected firmware is updated, creating a long-term security risk for organizations using these devices.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate firmware updates provided by NETGEAR to address the specific versions mentioned in the CVE. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to router management interfaces and restrict administrative access to only authorized personnel. Network monitoring solutions should be deployed to detect unusual traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers could use the XSS to execute malicious commands through the web interface. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and output encoding practices in web applications aligns with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-160 and OWASP Top Ten Project recommendations for preventing XSS vulnerabilities in enterprise network infrastructure.