CVE-2021-45527 in D6220
Summary
by MITRE • 12/26/2021
Certain NETGEAR devices are affected by a buffer overflow by an authenticated user. This affects D6220 before 1.0.0.68, D6400 before 1.0.0.102, D7000v2 before 1.0.0.66, D8500 before 1.0.3.58, DC112A before 1.0.0.54, EX7000 before 1.0.1.94, EX7500 before 1.0.0.72, R6250 before 1.0.4.48, R6300v2 before 1.0.4.52, R6400 before 1.0.1.70, R6400v2 before 1.0.4.102, R6700v3 before 1.0.4.102, R7000 before 1.0.11.116, R7100LG before 1.0.0.64, R7850 before 1.0.5.68, R7900 before 1.0.4.30, R7960P before 1.4.1.68, R8000 before 1.0.4.52, RAX200 before 1.0.2.88, RBS40V before 2.6.2.4, RS400 before 1.5.1.80, XR300 before 1.0.3.56, R7000P before 1.3.2.124, R8000P before 1.4.1.68, R8500 before 1.0.2.144, RAX80 before 1.0.3.102, R6900P before 1.3.2.124, R7900P before 1.4.1.68, R8300 before 1.0.2.144, RAX75 before 1.0.3.102, RBR750 before 3.2.17.12, RBR850 before 3.2.17.12, RBS750 before 3.2.17.12, RBS850 before 3.2.17.12, RBK752 before 3.2.17.12, and RBK852 before 3.2.17.12.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/28/2021
This vulnerability represents a critical buffer overflow condition that affects numerous NETGEAR router models, specifically identified as CVE-2021-45527. The flaw exists within the web interface handling of these devices, where an authenticated user can exploit a memory corruption issue through crafted input parameters. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it does not require external network access or special privileges beyond legitimate user authentication, making it accessible to attackers who have gained initial access through other means. The affected devices span multiple generations and model families including D-series, R-series, EX-series, and various wireless routers, indicating a widespread impact across NETGEAR's product portfolio. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a classic example of insecure input handling in network device management interfaces.
The technical exploitation of this buffer overflow occurs when authenticated users submit specially crafted data to web interface parameters that are not properly validated or sanitized. The vulnerability stems from insufficient bounds checking within the device's web server implementation, allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations through buffer overrun conditions. This type of vulnerability creates potential for arbitrary code execution, system crashes, or privilege escalation within the device's operating environment. The impact extends beyond simple denial of service as the buffer overflow can potentially allow attackers to execute malicious code with the privileges of the web server process, which typically operates with elevated system permissions. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in network environments where these devices serve as core infrastructure components, as compromise of one device can potentially lead to broader network infiltration and lateral movement opportunities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant for organizations relying on NETGEAR networking equipment, as it provides a pathway for authenticated attackers to gain unauthorized control over affected devices. Network administrators who have configured these devices with default credentials or who have not implemented proper access controls may find their systems vulnerable to exploitation. The attack surface is particularly large given the number of affected models and the prevalence of these devices in both enterprise and residential networking environments. Organizations that have not applied the relevant firmware updates may find themselves at risk of persistent compromise, as the vulnerability can be leveraged for ongoing access to network infrastructure. This vulnerability also impacts the integrity of network communications, as compromised devices can potentially serve as man-in-the-middle points or be used to redirect traffic to malicious endpoints.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate firmware updates from NETGEAR, as the vendor has released patches addressing the buffer overflow condition. Organizations should prioritize updating all affected devices regardless of their location within the network infrastructure, as even isolated devices can serve as entry points for broader attacks. Network segmentation and monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual traffic patterns or unauthorized access attempts to these devices. Access controls should be strictly enforced, ensuring that only authorized personnel have administrative access to router management interfaces. Network administrators should implement regular vulnerability scanning procedures to identify any remaining unpatched devices within their infrastructure. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and input validation in embedded network devices, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage, as compromised devices could potentially be used to execute malicious commands within the network environment.