CVE-2022-35537 in WN572HP3
Summary
by MITRE • 08/11/2022
WAVLINK WN572HP3, WN533A8, WN530H4, WN535G3, WN531P3 wireless.cgi has no filtering on parameters: mac_5g and Newname, which leads to command injection in page /wifi_mesh.shtml.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/04/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-35537 affects several WAVLINK wireless router models including WN572HP3, WN533A8, WN530H4, WN535G3, and WN531P3. This issue stems from inadequate input validation within the wireless.cgi script that handles parameters mac_5g and Newname. The absence of proper parameter filtering creates a critical security gap that allows attackers to inject malicious commands through the web interface. The vulnerability specifically manifests in the /wifi_mesh.shtml page where these unfiltered parameters are processed, enabling arbitrary command execution on the affected devices.
The technical flaw represents a classic command injection vulnerability that falls under CWE-77 which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in commands. The wireless.cgi script fails to sanitize user-provided input before incorporating it into system commands, creating an environment where attacker-controlled data can be interpreted as executable code. When the mac_5g and Newname parameters are submitted through the web interface, they bypass all validation mechanisms and are directly passed to underlying system functions, allowing for arbitrary command execution. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited remotely through the web administration interface without requiring authentication.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected wireless routers. Successful exploitation can result in full system compromise including unauthorized access to network traffic, modification of router configurations, installation of persistent backdoors, and potential use as a pivot point for attacking other devices within the local network. The vulnerability affects the mesh networking functionality of these devices, which could be particularly concerning in enterprise or residential mesh network deployments where multiple devices are interconnected. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to disrupt network services, steal sensitive information, or establish persistent access to the network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-35537 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the wireless.cgi script. The primary remediation involves adding strict parameter filtering to validate and sanitize all user inputs before processing them in system commands. Organizations should ensure that the mac_5g and Newname parameters undergo proper validation to prevent special characters and command sequences from being executed. Network administrators should also implement network segmentation, disable unnecessary services, and apply firmware updates from WAVLINK when available. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which covers command and script injection, highlighting the need for robust input validation and the principle of least privilege in network device management. Regular security assessments and network monitoring should be conducted to detect potential exploitation attempts and ensure the effectiveness of implemented mitigations.