CVE-2024-0921 in DIR-816 A2
Summary
by MITRE • 01/26/2024
A vulnerability has been found in D-Link DIR-816 A2 1.10CNB04 and classified as critical. Affected by this vulnerability is an unknown functionality of the file /goform/setDeviceSettings of the component Web Interface. The manipulation of the argument statuscheckpppoeuser leads to os command injection. The attack can be launched remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. The associated identifier of this vulnerability is VDB-252139.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/19/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-0921 represents a critical command injection flaw in D-Link DIR-816 A2 routers running firmware version 1.10CNB04. This vulnerability exists within the web interface component of the device, specifically in the /goform/setDeviceSettings endpoint which handles device configuration settings. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization of user-supplied parameters, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary operating system commands on the affected device. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows remote exploitation without requiring authentication, making it accessible to any attacker with network access to the device.
The technical exploitation occurs through manipulation of the statuscheckpppoeuser argument within the web interface request. When this parameter is improperly handled, it allows attackers to inject malicious commands that are subsequently executed by the underlying operating system. This command injection vulnerability maps directly to CWE-77, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands. The vulnerability enables attackers to gain unauthorized access to the device's operating system, potentially allowing them to modify device settings, install malicious software, or even use the device as a pivot point for attacks on other networked systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access. Attackers can leverage this flaw to completely compromise the router's functionality, potentially disrupting network services, modifying network configurations, or using the device as a command and control center for further attacks. The remote exploitation capability means that attackers do not need physical access to the device or network credentials to exploit this vulnerability. This makes the device particularly vulnerable to automated attacks and botnet recruitment, as demonstrated by the public disclosure of the exploit and its associated identifier VDB-252139. The attack vector through the web interface creates a significant risk for enterprise and residential networks that rely on D-Link DIR-816 A2 routers for their network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-0921 should include immediate firmware updates from D-Link to address the underlying command injection vulnerability. Network administrators should also implement network segmentation to limit access to affected devices and monitor for unusual network traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The implementation of web application firewalls and input validation measures can provide additional layers of protection. Organizations should also consider disabling unnecessary web interface access and implementing strict access controls. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques such as T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1071.004 for application layer protocol. Regular vulnerability assessments and network monitoring are essential to detect potential exploitation attempts and ensure continued protection against this and similar vulnerabilities.