CVE-2024-48074 in Vigor 2960
Summary
by MITRE • 10/28/2024
An authorized RCE vulnerability exists in the DrayTek Vigor2960 router version 1.4.4, where an attacker can place a malicious command into the table parameter of the doPPPoE function in the cgi-bin/mainfunction.cgi route, and finally the command is executed by the system function.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/09/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-48074 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the DrayTek Vigor2960 router firmware version 1.4.4. This vulnerability resides in the web-based administrative interface of the device, specifically within the cgi-bin/mainfunction.cgi script that handles PPPoE configuration parameters. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly handle malicious payloads submitted through the table parameter of the doPPPoE function. Security researchers have identified that this vulnerability allows an authenticated attacker with administrative privileges to inject and execute arbitrary system commands on the affected device, potentially compromising the entire network infrastructure.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a classic command injection pattern that aligns with CWE-77 and CWE-94 categories, where user-supplied input is directly concatenated into system commands without proper sanitization. The doPPPoE function in the cgi-bin/mainfunction.cgi endpoint accepts the table parameter and subsequently passes it to the system function without adequate validation or escaping mechanisms. This creates a pathway for attackers to manipulate the router's command execution environment by injecting malicious commands through the web interface. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only administrative authentication, which is often already established in enterprise environments where these devices are deployed, making the attack surface more accessible to determined threat actors.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-48074 extends far beyond simple unauthorized access, as successful exploitation can lead to complete network compromise and persistent backdoor access. An attacker who gains control of the router can manipulate network traffic, redirect DNS queries, establish persistent access points, and potentially use the device as a launching point for lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on DrayTek Vigor2960 routers for their network infrastructure, particularly those in sectors such as healthcare, finance, and government where network security is paramount. The implications align with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, and T1021.001 for remote services, as the attacker can leverage the compromised device to execute commands remotely and maintain persistent access to the network.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-48074 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from DrayTek, as the vendor has likely released patches addressing this specific vulnerability. Network administrators should implement strict access controls limiting administrative privileges to only essential personnel and establish robust monitoring of router administrative interfaces for suspicious activities. Additional defensive measures include network segmentation to isolate critical infrastructure from less secure network zones, implementing intrusion detection systems to monitor for command injection attempts, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments of network devices. Organizations should also consider implementing network access controls that limit direct administrative access to routers, using jump servers or specialized management networks to reduce exposure. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining current firmware versions and implementing comprehensive security monitoring as part of overall network security posture management, aligning with industry best practices outlined in frameworks such as NIST Cybersecurity Framework and ISO 27001 standards.