CVE-2022-31846 in WN535 G3
Summary
by MITRE • 06/14/2022
A vulnerability in live_mfg.shtml of WAVLINK WN535 G3 M35G3R.V5030.180927 allows attackers to obtain sensitive router information via execution of the exec cmd function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/15/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-31846 resides within the live_mfg.shtml web interface component of WAVLINK WN535 G3 routers running firmware version M35G3R.V5030.180927. This critical flaw manifests in the improper handling of command execution functions within the router's web management interface, creating a pathway for unauthorized access to sensitive system information. The vulnerability specifically targets the exec cmd function which is designed to execute system commands but fails to properly validate or sanitize input parameters, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary commands into the system.
This security weakness represents a classic command injection vulnerability that aligns with CWE-77 and follows patterns consistent with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter. The flaw enables remote code execution capabilities through the web interface, allowing attackers to execute system commands without proper authentication. The vulnerability exists because the router's web application does not adequately filter or escape user-supplied input before passing it to system execution functions, creating a direct pathway for command injection attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass full system compromise. Attackers can leverage this flaw to obtain sensitive router configuration data, user credentials, network settings, and potentially gain persistent access to the device. The vulnerability affects the router's management interface, which typically requires administrative privileges for access, but the command injection flaw allows unauthenticated exploitation. This creates a significant risk for network security as compromised routers can serve as entry points for broader network infiltration, enabling attackers to establish persistent backdoors, monitor network traffic, or redirect traffic through malicious proxies.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-31846 should prioritize firmware updates from WAVLINK to address the command injection vulnerability in the web interface. Network administrators should also implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential compromise and monitor for unusual network activity that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary web management interfaces, implementing strong access controls, and conducting regular security assessments of network infrastructure. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and proper sanitization of user-supplied data in web applications, particularly those with administrative functions that interface directly with system commands. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous command execution patterns and ensure that all network devices receive regular security updates to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.