CVE-2023-29804 in WFS-SR03
Summary
by MITRE • 04/14/2023
WFS-SR03 v1.0.3 was discovered to contain a command injection vulnerability via the sys_smb_pwdmod function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/03/2023
The WFS-SR03 device running firmware version 1.0.3 presents a critical command injection vulnerability through the sys_smb_pwdmod function, representing a significant security weakness that could enable unauthorized remote code execution. This vulnerability resides within the system's authentication and password management functionality, specifically targeting the SMB (Server Message Block) password modification process. The flaw allows an attacker to inject malicious commands that execute with the privileges of the affected service, potentially compromising the entire network infrastructure. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the sys_smb_pwdmod function, which directly incorporates user-supplied parameters into system commands without proper escaping or filtering mechanisms. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-77 category, specifically CWE-77: Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command, which is a well-documented weakness in software systems where user input is improperly handled in command contexts. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it affects network services that are fundamental to enterprise infrastructure, making it a prime target for attackers seeking persistent access to corporate networks.
The operational impact of this command injection vulnerability extends far beyond simple authentication bypasses, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on the affected device with elevated privileges. Successful exploitation could enable threat actors to install backdoors, modify system configurations, access sensitive data, or establish persistent access points within the network. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access or local network presence to compromise the system, making it particularly dangerous in environments where network devices are exposed to external traffic. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with the MITRE ATT&CK framework's T1059.001 technique for Command and Scripting Interpreter, specifically targeting Windows Command Shell execution. The device's exposure through network services such as SMB, which are commonly used for file sharing and authentication, creates multiple attack vectors that could be leveraged by threat actors to escalate privileges and move laterally within the network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must be comprehensive and multi-layered to address both immediate and long-term security concerns. Organizations should implement immediate network segmentation to isolate affected devices from critical network segments, while also applying firmware updates from the vendor as soon as they become available. The vulnerability requires input validation and sanitization measures to prevent command injection attacks, which aligns with the principle of least privilege and proper input handling practices. Security teams should conduct thorough network scanning to identify all instances of affected WFS-SR03 devices and implement network monitoring to detect anomalous command execution patterns. Additionally, the implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help identify and block malicious command injection attempts. Organizations should also consider disabling unnecessary SMB services and implementing strict access controls to limit the attack surface. The remediation process should include regular security audits of network infrastructure devices, particularly those running outdated firmware versions, as this vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches. Compliance with industry standards such as NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001 requires organizations to maintain continuous monitoring and vulnerability management processes that can identify and remediate such weaknesses before they can be exploited by malicious actors.