CVE-2024-29385 in DIR-845L
Summary
by MITRE • 03/22/2024
DIR-845L router <= v1.01KRb03 has an Unauthenticated remote code execution vulnerability in the cgibin binary via soapcgi_main function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/23/2024
The DIR-845L router running firmware versions up to and including v1.01KRb03 contains a critical unauthenticated remote code execution vulnerability within its web interface subsystem. This vulnerability exists in the cgibin binary component specifically within the soapcgi_main function, which processes incoming SOAP requests without proper authentication checks or input validation mechanisms. The flaw allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected device remotely, bypassing all authentication requirements and potentially compromising the entire network infrastructure.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from improper input sanitization within the soapcgi_main function that handles SOAP protocol communications. When the router processes malformed or malicious SOAP requests through its web interface, the system fails to validate user inputs before passing them to underlying system commands. This creates a classic command injection vulnerability where attacker-controlled data can be interpreted as executable commands by the system shell. The absence of authentication checks means any remote attacker can exploit this flaw without requiring valid credentials, making it particularly dangerous for networked environments.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it enables full compromise of the affected router and potentially the entire local network. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent backdoors, redirect network traffic through malicious proxies, modify router configurations, or use the device as a pivot point for further attacks against internal network resources. The vulnerability affects not only the router's web interface but also exposes the underlying operating system to arbitrary command execution, potentially allowing attackers to install malware, steal credentials, or perform man-in-the-middle attacks on network traffic. This represents a significant threat to network security and can result in complete network compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate firmware updates from the manufacturer to address the identified code injection flaw in the soapcgi_main function. Network administrators should also implement network segmentation and firewall rules to limit access to router management interfaces from untrusted networks. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary services, implementing strong network monitoring to detect suspicious traffic patterns, and regularly auditing router configurations for unauthorized changes. Organizations should follow industry standards such as those outlined in CWE-78 for command injection vulnerabilities and consider implementing the ATT&CK framework's techniques for detecting and preventing remote code execution attacks. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and authentication mechanisms in embedded systems, particularly those handling network protocols like SOAP that may not be commonly expected to be exposed to external networks.