CVE-2024-29973 in NAS326
Summary
by MITRE • 06/04/2024
** UNSUPPORTED WHEN ASSIGNED ** The command injection vulnerability in the “setCookie” parameter in Zyxel NAS326 firmware versions before V5.21(AAZF.17)C0 and NAS542 firmware versions before V5.21(ABAG.14)C0 could allow an unauthenticated attacker to execute some operating system (OS) commands by sending a crafted HTTP POST request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/04/2024
This vulnerability represents a critical command injection flaw in Zyxel network-attached storage devices that affects multiple firmware versions across different NAS models. The vulnerability specifically resides in the handling of the setCookie parameter within the web interface, where insufficient input validation allows attackers to inject malicious operating system commands. This issue impacts both NAS326 and NAS542 devices, with affected firmware versions prior to V5.21(AAZF.17)C0 and V5.21(ABAG.14)C0 respectively. The vulnerability is classified as a command injection flaw that falls under CWE-77, which specifically addresses command injection vulnerabilities in software applications. The security implications are severe as this vulnerability can be exploited by unauthenticated attackers, meaning no prior login credentials or privileged access are required to exploit the flaw.
The technical execution of this vulnerability occurs through a crafted HTTP POST request that targets the setCookie parameter in the device's web interface. When the firmware processes this parameter without proper sanitization or validation, it allows arbitrary command execution at the operating system level. This type of vulnerability creates a direct pathway for attackers to gain unauthorized access to the underlying operating system, potentially enabling them to execute malicious commands, access sensitive data, modify system configurations, or even escalate privileges within the device. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no authentication, making it accessible to anyone who can reach the device's web interface over the network.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized command execution, as it fundamentally compromises the security posture of affected Zyxel NAS devices. Network-attached storage systems typically contain sensitive organizational data, making them attractive targets for attackers seeking to establish persistent access or exfiltrate information. The vulnerability creates potential for complete system compromise, allowing attackers to install backdoors, modify system files, or even use the device as a pivot point for further attacks within a network. This type of attack aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001, which covers command and scripting interpreter execution, and represents a significant risk for organizations relying on these devices for data storage and network services.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigations including firmware updates to the latest supported versions, network segmentation to limit access to affected devices, and monitoring for suspicious HTTP POST requests targeting the setCookie parameter. Additionally, network administrators should consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests, and conduct thorough security assessments of all network-attached storage devices within their infrastructure. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and output encoding in web applications, as well as the necessity of maintaining up-to-date firmware to protect against known security flaws. Security teams should also implement network monitoring solutions specifically designed to detect command injection attempts and establish incident response procedures for handling potential exploitation of this vulnerability across their network infrastructure.