CVE-2021-45644 in AC2100
Summary
by MITRE • 12/26/2021
Certain NETGEAR devices are affected by incorrect configuration of security settings. This affects AC2100 before 1.2.0.88, AC2400 before 1.2.0.88, AC2600 before 1.2.0.88, R6220 before 1.1.0.110, R6230 before 1.1.0.110, R6260 before 1.1.0.84, R6330 before 1.1.0.84, R6350 before 1.1.0.84, R6700v2 before 1.2.0.88, R6800 before 1.2.0.88, R6850 before 1.1.0.84, R6900v2 before 1.2.0.88, R7200 before 1.2.0.88, R7350 before 1.2.0.88, R7400 before 1.2.0.88, and R7450 before 1.2.0.88.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/28/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-45644 represents a critical configuration flaw in numerous NETGEAR wireless routers and access points, specifically affecting models including the AC2100, AC2400, AC2600, and various R-series devices. This issue stems from improper security setting implementations that leave affected devices susceptible to unauthorized access and potential exploitation by malicious actors. The vulnerability impacts firmware versions prior to specific release numbers, with the affected models sharing common security misconfigurations that persist across multiple device families.
The technical flaw manifests through inadequate security parameter configurations within the device firmware, creating persistent weaknesses that can be exploited through various attack vectors. These misconfigurations typically involve improper default settings for administrative access, weak authentication mechanisms, or insufficient network security protocols. The vulnerability operates at the configuration layer rather than as a software bug, making it particularly concerning as it affects the fundamental security posture of the devices from their initial deployment. This misconfiguration allows attackers to potentially gain unauthorized access to device management interfaces, compromising the entire network infrastructure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, creating significant risks for network security and data integrity. Affected devices become potential entry points for attackers to establish persistent access, conduct man-in-the-middle attacks, or compromise connected network resources. The vulnerability's widespread nature across multiple device models means that organizations and individuals with these devices face elevated risks of network infiltration, particularly in environments where these devices serve as primary network gateways. The security implications include potential data exfiltration, network disruption, and the establishment of backdoors that could persist undetected for extended periods.
Network security professionals should implement immediate mitigation strategies including firmware updates to the latest available versions that address the security misconfigurations. The affected devices require manual firmware upgrades to versions 1.2.0.88 or later for most models, with specific versions noted for individual device families. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary services, implementing strong administrative passwords, and conducting regular security audits of network infrastructure. Organizations should also consider network segmentation and monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-754, representing an improper check for a condition that can lead to security flaws, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1072 for software deployment, highlighting the importance of proper device configuration management. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper security configuration management and the potential consequences of failing to implement secure default settings in network infrastructure devices.