CVE-2019-20697 in GS728TPPv2
Summary
by MITRE
Certain NETGEAR devices are affected by a stack-based buffer overflow by an unauthenticated attacker. This affects GS728TPPv2 before 6.0.0.48, GS728TPv2 before 6.0.0.48, GS750E before 1.0.1.4, GS752TPP before 6.0.0.48, and GS752TPv2 before 6.0.0.48.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/27/2024
This vulnerability represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw in NETGEAR network switching equipment that exposes multiple models to remote exploitation without authentication requirements. The affected devices include GS728TPPv2, GS728TPv2, GS750E, GS752TPP, and GS752TPv2 firmware versions prior to 6.0.0.48, creating a widespread security risk across several network infrastructure components. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the device's firmware handling mechanisms, specifically in how the system processes incoming network requests that exceed allocated buffer space. This flaw allows an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the device's stack, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or complete system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows a classic stack buffer overflow pattern where insufficient bounds checking permits data to overflow into adjacent memory segments. According to CWE-121, this corresponds to stack-based buffer overflow conditions that occur when a program writes data beyond the boundaries of a fixed-length buffer allocated on the stack. The attack vector requires no authentication credentials, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by any remote attacker with network access to the affected devices. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation to potentially enable complete network infrastructure takeover, given that these are core switching devices that often serve as fundamental network components in enterprise environments.
From an operational security perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for organizations relying on NETGEAR switching equipment, as it allows attackers to gain unauthorized access to network infrastructure without requiring legitimate credentials. The attack surface includes any network port or service exposed to external traffic that could be exploited to trigger the buffer overflow condition. According to ATT&CK framework tactic TA0001, this vulnerability enables initial access to network systems, while the subsequent exploitation could lead to privilege escalation and lateral movement within the network. Organizations using affected models face potential disruption of network services, data interception, and complete network compromise depending on the attacker's objectives and capabilities.
The recommended mitigation strategy involves immediate firmware updates to versions 6.0.0.48 or later for all affected NETGEAR switching equipment, as these releases contain patches addressing the buffer overflow conditions. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to limit exposure of these devices to untrusted networks, while continuous monitoring for exploitation attempts should be maintained. Security teams should also consider implementing network detection capabilities that can identify anomalous traffic patterns associated with buffer overflow exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify any other potentially affected network equipment and ensure proper patch management processes are in place to maintain ongoing security posture against similar vulnerabilities.