CVE-2023-0113 in Netcore Router
Summary
by MITRE • 01/07/2023
A vulnerability was found in Netis Netcore Router. It has been declared as problematic. Affected by this vulnerability is an unknown functionality of the file param.file.tgz of the component Backup Handler. The manipulation leads to information disclosure. The attack can be launched remotely. The associated identifier of this vulnerability is VDB-217591.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/03/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-0113 affects the Netis Netcore router series, specifically targeting the backup handler component within the router's firmware. This issue resides in the param.file.tgz file handling functionality, which represents a critical security flaw in the device's administrative interface. The vulnerability has been classified as information disclosure, indicating that unauthorized parties can potentially access sensitive data stored within the router's configuration files or system parameters. The remote attack vector means that this vulnerability can be exploited without physical access to the device, making it particularly concerning for network administrators managing multiple devices across different locations.
The technical flaw manifests in the improper handling of the param.file.tgz file within the backup handler component, which likely lacks adequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms. This weakness allows attackers to manipulate the file upload process and potentially extract confidential information from the router's configuration data. The vulnerability's classification as information disclosure aligns with CWE-200, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information, and represents a significant risk to network security. Attackers can leverage this flaw to gain insights into the router's internal configuration, network topology, and potentially sensitive credentials or system parameters that could facilitate further exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure, as it creates potential entry points for more sophisticated attacks within the network infrastructure. Network administrators may find their devices compromised without immediate detection, as the information disclosure could reveal network mapping details, authentication mechanisms, or other sensitive operational data. The remote exploitation capability means that threat actors can target these devices from anywhere on the internet, potentially affecting a wide range of users who have not properly secured their network equipment. This vulnerability directly relates to ATT&CK technique T1213.002, which involves data from information repositories, and demonstrates how seemingly routine administrative functions can become attack vectors for broader network infiltration.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-0113 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from Netis, as this represents the most effective defense against the vulnerability. Network administrators should also implement network segmentation to limit potential lateral movement if a device becomes compromised, and establish monitoring protocols to detect unusual backup operations or file transfers. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary administrative interfaces, implementing strong access controls for router management, and regularly auditing router configurations for unauthorized changes. Organizations should also consider network intrusion detection systems that can identify suspicious patterns in backup handler activities, as well as maintaining detailed logs of all administrative operations to aid in forensic analysis should an attack occur. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure firmware development practices and the need for regular security assessments of network infrastructure components to prevent similar issues from arising in the future.