CVE-2023-42495 in W-Web
Summary
by MITRE • 12/13/2023
Dasan Networks - W-Web versions 1.22-1.27 - CWE-78: Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command ('OS Command Injection')
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/10/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-42495 affects Dasan Networks W-Web firmware versions 1.22 through 1.27 and represents a critical operating system command injection flaw classified under CWE-78. This vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, creating a pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the affected devices. The issue manifests when user-supplied input containing command characters such as semicolons, ampersands, or backticks is not properly sanitized before being processed by the system's command execution mechanisms.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when attackers manipulate input fields within the web interface or API endpoints that interact with system commands. The improper neutralization allows malicious payloads to be interpreted as shell commands rather than data, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web application or system user. This command injection vulnerability specifically impacts the web-based management interface of Dasan Networks devices, potentially affecting network infrastructure equipment including routers, switches, and other networking hardware that utilizes this firmware.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, potentially allowing attackers to gain full administrative control over affected devices. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to modify network configurations, redirect traffic, install malware, or establish persistent backdoors within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the integrity and availability of network services, as attackers could potentially cause denial of service conditions by executing destructive commands. Additionally, compromised devices could serve as entry points for lateral movement within network environments, particularly in enterprise and industrial settings where these devices may be part of critical infrastructure.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including firmware updates from Dasan Networks to address the command injection vulnerability, as well as network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. Network administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious command injection attempts, and conduct thorough network audits to identify any potential compromise indicators. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper command execution sanitization in network infrastructure devices, particularly those with web-based management interfaces that may be exposed to untrusted network traffic.