CVE-2022-35524 in WN572HP3
Summary
by MITRE • 08/11/2022
WAVLINK WN572HP3, WN533A8, WN530H4, WN535G3, WN531P3 adm.cgi has no filtering on parameters: wlan_signal, web_pskValue, sel_EncrypTyp, sel_Automode, wlan_bssid, wlan_ssid and wlan_channel, which leads to command injection in page /wizard_rep.shtml.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/04/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-35524 affects multiple WAVLINK wireless router models including WN572HP3, WN533A8, WN530H4, WN535G3, and WN531P3. This issue stems from insufficient input validation within the administrative web interface, specifically in the adm.cgi script that handles configuration parameters for wireless network settings. The affected parameters include wlan_signal, web_pskValue, sel_EncrypTyp, sel_Automode, wlan_bssid, wlan_ssid, and wlan_channel, all of which lack proper sanitization or filtering mechanisms. The vulnerability occurs within the context of the administrative interface where these parameters are processed without adequate validation, creating a pathway for malicious input to be executed as commands.
The technical flaw represents a classic command injection vulnerability that operates at the application layer, specifically within the web application's input handling mechanisms. When these parameters are passed to the system without proper sanitization, an attacker can craft malicious payloads that get interpreted and executed by the underlying operating system. The exploitation occurs through the /wizard_rep.shtml page which processes the unfiltered input from adm.cgi, allowing arbitrary command execution on the affected devices. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-77, Command Injection, and demonstrates poor input validation practices that violate fundamental security principles. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within the administrative context, potentially providing attackers with full control over the router's configuration and network operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the affected routers without authentication. An attacker could potentially gain full administrative control over the device, enabling them to modify network configurations, intercept traffic, redirect connections, or even install malicious firmware. The vulnerability affects the core wireless functionality of these devices, potentially compromising entire local networks that rely on these routers for connectivity. The attack surface extends beyond simple command execution to include potential data exfiltration, network reconnaissance, and the ability to use the compromised device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the network. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, and T1046 for Network Service Scanning, as it enables both command execution and network reconnaissance capabilities.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all parameters received by the adm.cgi script. The most effective approach involves filtering and escaping all user-supplied input before processing, particularly for parameters that may be used in system command execution contexts. Network segmentation and access control should be implemented to limit exposure, while regular firmware updates should be applied to address known vulnerabilities. The device manufacturers should implement proper parameter validation and avoid direct system command execution with user input. Additionally, network monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous command execution patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing network access controls to restrict access to administrative interfaces and ensure that only authorized personnel can access these critical management functions. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and input validation, emphasizing that all user-supplied data must be treated as potentially malicious until properly validated and sanitized.