CVE-2021-45611 in DC112A
Summary
by MITRE • 12/26/2021
Certain NETGEAR devices are affected by a buffer overflow by an unauthenticated attacker. This affects DC112A before 1.0.0.52, R6400 before 1.0.1.68, RAX200 before 1.0.3.106, WNDR3400v3 before 1.0.1.38, XR300 before 1.0.3.68, R8500 before 1.0.2.144, RAX75 before 1.0.3.106, R8300 before 1.0.2.144, and RAX80 before 1.0.3.106.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/28/2021
This vulnerability represents a critical buffer overflow flaw in NETGEAR networking equipment that allows unauthenticated remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected devices. The issue stems from improper input validation within the device's web interface handling mechanisms, creating a condition where maliciously crafted input can overwrite adjacent memory regions in the application's address space. The affected models span multiple product lines including routers and wireless access points, with specific firmware versions identified as vulnerable across various device families. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, where insufficient bounds checking permits data to be written beyond the allocated buffer boundaries, potentially leading to memory corruption and arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it enables attackers to gain full administrative control over affected devices without requiring any authentication credentials. This allows threat actors to modify network configurations, redirect traffic through malicious proxies, install backdoors, or use the compromised devices as launching points for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects devices that are typically deployed in residential and small office environments where network monitoring and security controls may be minimal. Attackers can exploit this flaw remotely over the internet, making it a significant threat to both individual users and enterprise networks that may unknowingly include vulnerable NETGEAR devices.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically mapping it to techniques such as T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and T1021 for remote services. The vulnerability's exploitation aligns with the tactic of privilege escalation and persistence, as attackers can establish long-term control over affected networks. Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation efforts by updating all affected device firmware to the latest versions provided by NETGEAR, as these updates typically include input validation fixes and memory boundary checks. Network segmentation and monitoring should be implemented to detect potential exploitation attempts, while security teams should consider conducting vulnerability assessments to identify any devices that may not have been updated or are running unsupported firmware versions. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and regular security testing of network infrastructure components to prevent similar issues from emerging in the future.