CVE-2021-38464 in IR615
Summary
by MITRE • 10/19/2021
InHand Networks IR615 Router's Versions 2.3.0.r4724 and 2.3.0.r4870 have inadequate encryption strength, which may allow an attacker to intercept the communication and steal sensitive information or hijack the session.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/22/2021
The CVE-2021-38464 vulnerability affects InHand Networks IR615 routers running specific firmware versions 2.3.0.r4724 and 2.3.0.r4870, representing a critical weakness in the device's cryptographic implementation that compromises network security. This vulnerability stems from the use of insufficient encryption algorithms and key lengths that fail to meet modern security standards, creating an exploitable weakness in the router's communication protocols. The affected devices utilize outdated cryptographic mechanisms that can be readily broken through brute force attacks or advanced cryptanalytic techniques, making them susceptible to man-in-the-middle attacks and eavesdropping operations.
The technical flaw manifests in the router's implementation of wireless encryption protocols where it employs weak cryptographic ciphers or insufficient key sizes that do not provide adequate protection against contemporary attack vectors. This weakness allows adversaries to potentially intercept and decrypt network traffic passing through the device, thereby gaining access to sensitive data transmitted over the network. The vulnerability specifically impacts the router's ability to establish secure communication channels, creating opportunities for attackers to perform session hijacking, data exfiltration, and unauthorized access to network resources. From a cybersecurity perspective, this represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege and secure communication practices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data interception to encompass complete network compromise scenarios where attackers can manipulate communication flows and potentially escalate privileges within the network infrastructure. Organizations relying on these routers face significant risks including intellectual property theft, financial data breaches, and unauthorized access to critical network resources. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to prolonged unauthorized access periods, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments where network security is paramount. The affected firmware versions indicate a failure in proper cryptographic implementation and security testing during the development lifecycle, suggesting potential gaps in security assurance processes.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-38464 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from InHand Networks to address the cryptographic weaknesses in the affected router versions. Network administrators must conduct comprehensive inventory assessments to identify all affected devices and implement temporary security controls such as network segmentation and enhanced monitoring. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-327 which addresses broken or weak cryptographic algorithms, and represents a clear violation of NIST SP 800-57 guidelines for cryptographic key management and algorithm selection. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security layers including intrusion detection systems, network traffic analysis, and regular security audits to detect potential exploitation attempts. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1046 Network Service Scanning and T1566 Phishing, as attackers may leverage the compromised router to establish persistent access and conduct further reconnaissance activities. Long-term security improvements should include implementing robust cryptographic standards, regular security assessments, and ensuring proper firmware update management processes to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future deployments.