CVE-2022-22140 in LinkHub Mesh Wi-Fi MS1G
Summary
by MITRE • 08/06/2022
An os command injection vulnerability exists in the confsrv ucloud_add_node functionality of TCL LinkHub Mesh Wi-Fi MS1G_00_01.00_14. A specially-crafted network packet can lead to arbitrary command execution. An attacker can send a malicious packet to trigger this vulnerability.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/31/2022
The CVE-2022-22140 vulnerability represents a critical os command injection flaw within the confsrv component of TCL LinkHub Mesh Wi-Fi MS1G_00_01 devices. This vulnerability specifically affects the ucloud_add_node functionality, which serves as a network management interface for adding nodes to the mesh network. The flaw allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the affected device by crafting and sending malicious network packets. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the command processing pipeline, creating an attack surface where user-supplied data directly influences system command execution. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-77 which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, making it particularly dangerous for network infrastructure devices.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the device's failure to properly sanitize input parameters passed to system commands during the node addition process. When the ucloud_add_node function processes network packets containing crafted input data, the system directly incorporates this unvalidated data into shell commands without adequate filtering or escaping mechanisms. This creates a classic command injection scenario where an attacker can append malicious commands to legitimate system calls, effectively gaining unauthorized control over the device's operating system. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no authentication or privileged access, making it accessible to any network entity capable of sending packets to the device. The vulnerability operates at the network layer, leveraging the device's legitimate network management functionality to execute malicious code.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-22140 extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected Wi-Fi mesh network infrastructure. Once exploited, an attacker can execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the system user running the confsrv process, potentially leading to complete device compromise, data exfiltration, or use of the device as a pivot point for attacking other network components. The vulnerability affects the entire TCL LinkHub Mesh Wi-Fi ecosystem, potentially compromising thousands of devices deployed in residential and commercial environments. This represents a significant risk to network security and privacy, as attackers could manipulate network topology, intercept communications, or establish persistent backdoors within the mesh network. The attack could also facilitate lateral movement within networks where these devices serve as access points or network bridges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-22140 should focus on immediate firmware updates from TCL, as the vendor has likely released patches addressing the input validation issues. Network administrators should implement strict firewall rules to restrict access to the affected device's management interfaces, particularly blocking unauthorized network traffic to the specific ports used by the confsrv component. Additionally, network segmentation can help limit the potential impact of exploitation by isolating affected devices from critical network segments. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual command execution patterns and anomalous network traffic to the device's management interfaces. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems capable of identifying the specific packet patterns associated with this vulnerability. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter, specifically targeting the use of OS commands for malicious purposes. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar command injection flaws in other network infrastructure components.