CVE-2025-2717 in DIR-823X
Summary
by MITRE • 03/25/2025
A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, has been found in D-Link DIR-823X 240126/240802. This issue affects the function sub_41710C of the file /goform/diag_nslookup of the component HTTP POST Request Handler. The manipulation of the argument target_addr leads to os command injection. The attack may be initiated remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/25/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-2717 represents a critical command injection flaw in D-Link DIR-823X routers with firmware versions 240126 and 240802. This security weakness resides within the HTTP POST Request Handler component of the device's web interface, specifically in the sub_41710C function located in the /goform/diag_nslookup file. The flaw manifests when the target_addr parameter is processed without adequate input validation or sanitization, creating an exploitable path for malicious actors to execute arbitrary operating system commands on the affected device.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of user-supplied input within the network diagnostics functionality of the router. When a remote attacker submits a specially crafted HTTP POST request containing malicious content in the target_addr field, the application fails to properly escape or validate the input before incorporating it into system commands. This design flaw directly maps to CWE-77 which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and CWE-94 which addresses improper control of generation of code. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and leverages the router's web server to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the web application process, typically running with elevated system permissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching for affected networks. Remote attackers can leverage this command injection flaw to execute arbitrary code on the router, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Attackers may gain unauthorized access to the device's configuration, modify network settings, establish persistent backdoors, or use the compromised router as a pivot point for further attacks within the local network. The vulnerability affects not just individual devices but entire network infrastructures, as compromised routers can serve as launching points for broader network reconnaissance and lateral movement attacks. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.001 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell) and T1566.001 (Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment) as attackers may use the compromised device to send malicious payloads or conduct network reconnaissance activities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-2717 require immediate action from network administrators and device owners. The primary recommendation is to update the firmware to the latest version provided by D-Link, which should contain patches addressing this specific vulnerability. Until firmware updates are available, network administrators should implement network segmentation to isolate affected devices from critical network segments, disable unnecessary services, and monitor network traffic for suspicious activity. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices in embedded devices, particularly regarding input validation and proper command construction. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments of their network infrastructure to identify similar flaws in other network devices, as this type of vulnerability is common in embedded systems with insufficient security controls. The public disclosure of exploitation methods further emphasizes the urgency of implementing immediate protective measures and monitoring for potential compromise indicators.