CVE-2024-41992 in FMIMG51AX000J
Summary
by MITRE • 11/11/2024
Wi-Fi Alliance wfa_dut (in Wi-Fi Test Suite) through 9.0.0 allows OS command injection via 802.11x frames because the system() library function is used. For example, on Arcadyan FMIMG51AX000J devices, this leads to wfaTGSendPing remote code execution as root via traffic to TCP port 8000 or 8080 on a LAN interface. On other devices, this may be exploitable over a WAN interface.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/11/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-41992 represents a critical operating system command injection flaw within the Wi-Fi Alliance wfa_dut component of the Wi-Fi Test Suite version 9.0.0 and earlier. This vulnerability exists in the implementation of 802.11x frame processing where the system() library function is improperly invoked without adequate input sanitization or validation. The flaw stems from the insecure use of system calls that directly execute user-supplied data as shell commands, creating a pathway for arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability affects multiple network devices including the Arcadyan FMIMG51AX000J model, where the exploitation results in remote code execution with root privileges. This represents a significant security risk as it allows attackers to execute malicious commands on affected devices without requiring authentication or physical access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the wfa_dut module that processes wireless frames during testing procedures. When the system() function is called with unvalidated input from 802.11x frames, the input is passed directly to the underlying operating system shell for execution. This pattern of command injection follows the common CWE-78 weakness classification which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the network level through TCP ports 8000 and 8080, which are commonly used for management interfaces and testing protocols. Attackers can craft malicious 802.11x frames containing shell commands that, when processed by the vulnerable system, execute with the privileges of the running process, typically root or administrator level access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple command execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential network infiltration. On the Arcadyan FMIMG51AX000J device, the exploitation leads to remote code execution as root, enabling attackers to gain full administrative control over the device. This allows for persistent backdoor installation, network reconnaissance, data exfiltration, and further lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability's reach is amplified by its potential exploitation over both local area networks and wide area networks, depending on device configuration and network topology. The TCP ports 8000 and 8080 serve as attack vectors that are often exposed to external networks or accessible through legitimate management protocols, making the exploitation surface larger than typical internal network vulnerabilities. The impact severity aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, where adversaries use legitimate system utilities to execute malicious commands.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-41992 should focus on immediate patching of the Wi-Fi Test Suite to version 9.0.1 or later where the command injection vulnerability has been addressed. Network administrators should implement strict firewall rules to block unauthorized access to TCP ports 8000 and 8080 on affected devices, particularly when these ports are exposed to untrusted networks. The implementation of network segmentation and access control lists can help limit the attack surface and prevent unauthorized access to management interfaces. Additionally, network monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous traffic patterns associated with command injection attempts, including unusual packet structures containing shell metacharacters. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all devices running affected versions of the Wi-Fi Test Suite and ensure proper network hygiene practices are maintained. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and input validation in network infrastructure components, particularly those handling user-provided data through network protocols.