CVE-2021-38484 in IR615
Summary
by MITRE • 10/19/2021
InHand Networks IR615 Router's Versions 2.3.0.r4724 and 2.3.0.r4870 do not have a filter or signature check to detect or prevent an upload of malicious files to the server, which may allow an attacker, acting as an administrator, to upload malicious files. This could result in cross-site scripting, deletion of system files, and remote code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/22/2021
The CVE-2021-38484 vulnerability affects InHand Networks IR615 routers running specific firmware versions, presenting a critical security flaw that undermines the device's integrity and operational security. This vulnerability stems from the absence of proper file validation mechanisms during the upload process, creating an exploitable condition that allows unauthorized file uploads to the router's server. The flaw exists within the router's web interface management system, where administrative users can upload configuration files or firmware updates without adequate security checks. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it enables attackers who have gained administrative access or can escalate privileges to upload malicious payloads that can compromise the entire network infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a lack of input validation and sanitization within the router's file upload functionality. When administrative users attempt to upload files through the web interface, the system fails to perform signature verification or content type checks that would normally prevent potentially harmful file types from being processed. This absence of security controls aligns with CWE-434, which describes "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type," a weakness that allows unrestricted file uploads to occur without proper validation. The vulnerability creates a pathway for attackers to bypass normal security boundaries and execute arbitrary code on the affected device, as the uploaded files can be executed with the privileges of the web server process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file upload capabilities and can result in severe consequences including cross-site scripting attacks, system file deletion, and full remote code execution. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can establish persistent access to the router's management interface, potentially using the compromised device as a foothold for further network infiltration. The cross-site scripting component allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users, while the remote code execution capability enables complete system compromise. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for remote code execution and T1566 for credential harvesting through web applications, making it a significant threat vector for network attackers.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-38484 should focus on immediate firmware updates from InHand Networks, as the vendor has likely released patches addressing this specific vulnerability. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to administrative interfaces and establish strict firewall rules that restrict file upload capabilities to trusted sources only. The implementation of file type restrictions and content validation mechanisms should be enforced at multiple layers of the network infrastructure. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual file upload patterns and unauthorized access attempts to administrative interfaces. Additionally, regular security assessments should verify that no unauthorized files have been uploaded to the router, and network administrators should implement principle of least privilege access controls to minimize the potential impact of compromised administrative credentials. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current firmware versions and implementing robust security controls around network device management interfaces.