CVE-2024-42757 in RT-N15U
Summary
by MITRE • 08/15/2024
Command injection vulnerability in Asus RT-N15U 3.0.0.4.376_3754 allows a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code via the netstat function page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/21/2024
This command injection vulnerability exists within the Asus RT-N15U router firmware version 3.0.0.4.376_3754 where the netstat function page fails to properly sanitize user input before executing system commands. The flaw allows a remote attacker to inject malicious commands through the web interface, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding in the web application layer, specifically within the network statistics functionality that processes user-supplied parameters. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-77 which categorizes command injection flaws where untrusted data is passed directly to system execution functions without proper sanitization or escaping mechanisms. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it requires no authentication and can be exploited remotely through the web management interface, making it accessible to any attacker with network connectivity to the device.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple command execution, as it enables attackers to gain full administrative control over the router. Successful exploitation could allow adversaries to modify firewall rules, redirect traffic through malicious proxies, install backdoors, or extract sensitive configuration data including wireless passwords and administrative credentials. The netstat function page typically serves legitimate network monitoring purposes, but the insecure implementation creates a persistent attack surface that remains active as long as the router is accessible. This vulnerability represents a significant risk to network security as routers often serve as the primary gateway and control point for network traffic, making them prime targets for attackers seeking persistent access or network reconnaissance. The impact aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and script interpreter, where adversaries leverage system command execution capabilities to establish footholds within target networks.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate firmware updates from Asus to address the command injection flaw, as well as network segmentation to limit exposure of router management interfaces to untrusted networks. Organizations should implement network access controls to restrict access to router management ports to authorized administrative networks only, and consider disabling web management interfaces entirely when not actively required. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation and output encoding practices in web applications, particularly those interacting with system-level functions. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual network traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, and regular security audits should verify that all network devices maintain current firmware versions. Network defenders should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems capable of identifying command injection patterns in HTTP requests, and establish incident response procedures for handling router compromise scenarios. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical need for robust security practices in embedded systems and network infrastructure devices that often receive insufficient security attention despite their critical role in network operations.