CVE-2021-1296 in RV160
Summary
by MITRE • 02/05/2021
Multiple vulnerabilities in the web-based management interface of Cisco Small Business RV160, RV160W, RV260, RV260P, and RV260W VPN Routers could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to conduct directory traversal attacks and overwrite certain files that should be restricted on an affected system. These vulnerabilities are due to insufficient input validation. An attacker could exploit these vulnerabilities by using the web-based management interface to upload a file to location on an affected device that they should not have access to. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to overwrite files on the file system of the affected device.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/24/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-1296 affects Cisco Small Business VPN routers including models RV160, RV160W, RV260, RV260P, and RV260W. This issue represents a critical security flaw in the web-based management interface that exposes these devices to remote exploitation without requiring authentication. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the router's web interface, creating a pathway for attackers to manipulate file system operations through crafted requests. The affected devices are commonly deployed in small business environments where they serve as network gateways, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals seeking persistent access to corporate networks.
The technical exploitation of CVE-2021-1296 relies on directory traversal attacks that leverage insufficient input validation to bypass normal file access controls. Attackers can manipulate the web interface to upload files to restricted locations within the device's file system, effectively circumventing the intended security boundaries. This vulnerability specifically targets the router's file handling mechanisms, allowing unauthorized file operations that should be restricted to authorized administrative users only. The flaw enables attackers to overwrite critical system files, potentially leading to complete device compromise and persistent backdoor access. According to CWE classification, this vulnerability maps to CWE-22 Directory Traversal and CWE-73 Path Traversal, both of which are well-documented weaknesses in input validation and file system access controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it provides attackers with the capability to modify core system components and potentially install malicious software on the affected devices. Once exploited, attackers can gain persistent access to the network infrastructure, allowing them to monitor traffic, redirect connections, or establish command and control channels. The vulnerability affects devices that are typically deployed in small business environments where network security may be less sophisticated, making these routers particularly susceptible to exploitation. The lack of authentication requirements means that any remote attacker with knowledge of the affected models can exploit this vulnerability, significantly increasing the attack surface and potential impact across numerous organizations. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1566 Phishing, as it enables attackers to establish persistent access and potentially expand their foothold within the network.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-1296 should prioritize immediate device updates from Cisco to address the identified input validation flaws. Network administrators should disable web-based management interfaces when possible and restrict access to these interfaces through firewall rules and network segmentation. Regular security assessments of network infrastructure should include verification of device firmware versions and implementation of network monitoring to detect suspicious file operations. Organizations should also implement network access controls to limit exposure of these devices to untrusted networks and establish robust patch management processes to ensure timely application of security updates. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation in web applications and underscores the need for secure coding practices in network device firmware development, particularly in the context of small business network infrastructure where security resources may be limited.