CVE-2022-2486 in WN535K2
Summary
by MITRE • 07/20/2022
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, was found in WAVLINK WN535K2 and WN535K3. This affects an unknown part of the file /cgi-bin/mesh.cgi?page=upgrade. The manipulation of the argument key leads to os command injection. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/15/2022
This critical vulnerability exists in WAVLINK WN535K2 and WN535K3 wireless routers where improper input validation occurs in the mesh.cgi web interface component. The specific file path /cgi-bin/mesh.cgi?page=upgrade contains a command injection flaw that allows attackers to execute arbitrary operating system commands through manipulation of the key argument parameter. This represents a severe security weakness that directly violates the principle of input sanitization and proper parameter handling in web applications.
The technical flaw stems from inadequate validation of user-supplied input within the mesh.cgi script, specifically in how the key parameter is processed during the upgrade page functionality. When an attacker submits malicious input through the key argument, the system fails to properly sanitize or escape the input before using it in system command execution contexts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-77 which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, making it susceptible to command injection attacks. The flaw allows for arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the web server process, potentially enabling complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with unrestricted access to the affected router's operating system. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can execute arbitrary commands, potentially leading to complete system takeover, data exfiltration, or use of the device as a pivot point for attacking other network resources. The public disclosure of the exploit means that malicious actors can readily leverage this weakness without requiring advanced technical skills or significant resources. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in networked environments where routers serve as gateways and can provide attackers with access to internal networks.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate firmware updates from WAVLINK to address the command injection vulnerability, network segmentation to limit access to the affected device, and implementation of network monitoring to detect suspicious 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's command and control techniques. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and restricting administrative access to these devices to reduce the attack surface and prevent unauthorized exploitation of such critical vulnerabilities.