CVE-2023-33381 in GPT-2741GNAC
Summary
by MITRE • 06/06/2023
A command injection vulnerability was found in the ping functionality of the MitraStar GPT-2741GNAC router (firmware version AR_g5.8_110WVN0b7_2). The vulnerability allows an authenticated user to execute arbitrary OS commands by sending specially crafted input to the router via the ping function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/09/2026
The CVE-2023-33381 vulnerability represents a critical command injection flaw within the MitraStar GPT-2741GNAC router firmware version AR_g5.8_110WVN0b7_2. This vulnerability specifically targets the router's ping functionality, which is a commonly used network diagnostic tool that allows users to test connectivity to remote hosts. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the router's web interface, where user-supplied parameters are directly incorporated into system commands without proper escaping or filtering mechanisms. The vulnerability affects authenticated users who possess valid credentials to access the router's administrative interface, making it particularly concerning as it requires minimal privileges to exploit.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the ping function's input parameters, which are processed by the underlying operating system without adequate security controls. When an authenticated user submits malicious input through the ping interface, the system interprets this input as part of the command execution pipeline, allowing arbitrary code execution at the operating system level. This type of vulnerability is classified under CWE-77 as "Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command ('Command Injection')", which is a well-documented weakness that has been consistently exploited in network devices due to insufficient input sanitization. The attack vector specifically targets the router's web server component that handles user requests and translates them into system commands, creating a direct pathway for privilege escalation and remote code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple command execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected router's operating system. Once exploited, an attacker can modify router configurations, redirect network traffic, implement man-in-the-middle attacks, or establish persistent backdoors within the network infrastructure. The compromised router becomes a potential pivot point for lateral movement within the local network, enabling attackers to target other connected devices and systems. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise and residential networks where the router serves as a critical gateway component, potentially allowing unauthorized access to sensitive internal resources. The implications align with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, where adversaries leverage legitimate system tools to execute malicious commands, and T1566 for Phishing, as the initial compromise may occur through social engineering to obtain valid credentials.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-33381 should include immediate firmware updates from MitraStar to address the command injection vulnerability, along with network segmentation to limit the potential impact of a successful exploitation. Administrators should implement strict access controls, including multi-factor authentication and regular credential rotation, to reduce the attack surface for authenticated exploitation. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual ping traffic patterns or command execution attempts, while firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to router management interfaces from untrusted networks. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary services, implementing intrusion detection systems, and conducting regular security audits of network infrastructure components. Organizations should also consider deploying network access control policies that limit the privileges of authenticated users and establish baseline configurations that minimize the risk of exploitation. The vulnerability highlights the importance of regular firmware updates and security assessments, as it demonstrates how seemingly benign network diagnostic tools can become entry points for sophisticated attacks when proper security controls are not implemented.