CVE-2021-45577 in RBK752
Summary
by MITRE • 12/26/2021
Certain NETGEAR devices are affected by command injection by an authenticated user. This affects RBK752 before 3.2.16.6, RBR750 before 3.2.16.6, RBS750 before 3.2.16.6, RBK852 before 3.2.16.6, RBR850 before 3.2.16.6, and RBS850 before 3.2.16.6.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/28/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-45577 represents a critical command injection flaw affecting multiple NETGEAR router models including RBK752, RBR750, RBS750, RBK852, RBR850, and RBS850. This security weakness allows authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary commands on affected devices, fundamentally compromising the integrity and confidentiality of network infrastructure. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the device management interfaces, creating an attack vector where legitimate users can manipulate system commands through crafted input parameters.
This command injection vulnerability operates at the application layer and aligns with CWE-77 which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in command execution. The flaw enables attackers who have already gained authentication credentials to escalate their privileges and execute malicious commands with the same privileges as the authenticated user. The affected firmware versions prior to 3.2.16.6 demonstrate a lack of proper command filtering and validation mechanisms, allowing attackers to inject operating system commands directly into vulnerable parameters.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with complete control over affected network devices. An authenticated attacker could potentially access sensitive network configurations, modify firewall rules, redirect traffic, or even install malicious firmware. This vulnerability directly violates the principle of least privilege and compromises the device's ability to maintain secure network operations. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that these devices typically serve as primary network gateways, making them prime targets for network infiltration and lateral movement.
Network security professionals should immediately implement mitigation strategies including firmware updates to versions 3.2.16.6 or later, which contain proper input validation and command sanitization measures. Additionally, network segmentation and monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual command execution patterns. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and input validation as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically mapping to techniques involving command execution and privilege escalation. Organizations should also consider implementing network access controls to limit administrative access to these devices and establish robust change management processes to ensure timely patch deployment across all network infrastructure components.