CVE-2021-29065 in RBR850
Summary
by MITRE • 03/23/2021
NETGEAR RBR850 devices before 3.2.10.11 are affected by authentication bypass.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/03/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-29065 affects NETGEAR RBR850 wireless range extender devices running firmware versions prior to 3.2.10.11. This authentication bypass flaw represents a critical security weakness that allows unauthorized users to gain administrative access to the device without proper credentials. The issue stems from inadequate authentication mechanisms within the device's web interface and management protocols, creating a pathway for attackers to bypass the standard login process and assume full administrative control over the affected hardware.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a flaw in the device's authentication handling logic where the system fails to properly validate user credentials before granting access to administrative functions. This authentication bypass occurs at the application layer and affects the device's web-based management interface, which typically requires valid username and password combinations for administrative access. Attackers can exploit this weakness by directly accessing administrative endpoints or manipulating authentication parameters to circumvent the normal authentication flow, effectively rendering the device's access controls ineffective.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching for organizations and individuals utilizing affected NETGEAR RBR850 devices. Once exploited, attackers gain complete administrative control over the wireless range extender, enabling them to modify network configurations, access network traffic, install malicious software, or use the device as a pivot point for further attacks within the network. The compromised device can serve as a persistent backdoor, allowing attackers to maintain long-term access while potentially disrupting network operations and compromising the security of connected devices. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise networks where wireless range extenders are commonly deployed to expand network coverage and maintain connectivity in challenging environments.
Network security frameworks such as CWE-287 identify this as an authentication weakness that directly violates fundamental security principles, while ATT&CK framework mappings would classify this under T1078 Valid Accounts and T1046 Network Service Scanning, as attackers leverage the compromised device to establish persistent access and potentially expand their reconnaissance efforts. Organizations should immediately implement mitigation strategies including firmware updates to version 3.2.10.11 or later, network segmentation to isolate affected devices, and monitoring for suspicious access patterns. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary network services, implementing strong access controls for remaining administrative interfaces, and conducting thorough network audits to identify any potential exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be performed to ensure ongoing protection against similar authentication bypass vulnerabilities that may emerge in network infrastructure devices.