External risk intelligence

Netgear Router Remote Code Execution Vulnerability.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2016-10174

A buffer overflow vulnerability exists in certain NETGEAR routers. This flaw allows an unauthenticated attacker to execute remote code, potentially compromising the device and network data. Organizations should identify affected assets and apply vendor security updates.

3Halo Surface Signal

Buffer Overflow

Netgear D6100 Firmware

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2016-10174

This vulnerability affects various SOHO routers via a buffer overflow in a web interface parameter. While these devices are internet gateways, the vulnerable function is intended for local network administration. Although remote management can be enabled, exposing these interfaces to the public internet is considered a misconfiguration rather than a standard design.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

The NETGEAR WNR2000v5 router has a flaw in how it handles certain language check data. This weakness allows an unauthorized attacker to execute their own code on the device remotely. This could potentially lead to unauthorized access to or modification of network data.

Router's language check feature
Buffer overflow in data handling
Remote code execution and data compromise

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

This vulnerability allows an unauthenticated attacker to execute arbitrary code on a NETGEAR router. The attack exploits a buffer overflow in a specific router parameter accessible through a web interface. Successful exploitation could enable an attacker to gain control of the affected device, potentially impacting network operations and data security.

Network exposure required.
Attacker sends malicious input.
Remote code execution occurs.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability allows unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely on affected routers. The exploit targets a buffer overflow in a specific router parameter, potentially leading to a compromise of the device and network. Organizations using the affected NETGEAR routers should consider this a high-risk issue.

Attackers with moderate skill.
Publicly accessible router interface.
High business risk; requires urgent attention.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability presents a significant risk, allowing unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely on affected NETGEAR routers. Organizations utilizing these devices should prioritize identifying all instances of the vulnerable product across their infrastructure to mitigate potential compromise. Remote code execution can lead to unauthorized access, data exfiltration, or the deployment of malicious software, impacting business operations and data integrity.

Find all affected NETGEAR router assets.
Restrict network access to exposed router interfaces.
Apply vendor security updates and confirm installation.
Monitor for unusual network activity post-update.

Frequently asked questions

What is the NETGEAR WNR2000v5 router and its primary function?

The NETGEAR WNR2000v5 is a router designed for home and small office networks. Its main purpose is to provide internet connectivity and manage network traffic, enabling devices on the local network to communicate with each other and access the internet.

What type of vulnerability does CVE-2016-10174 describe?

CVE-2016-10174 describes a buffer overflow vulnerability. This occurs when a program writes data beyond the allocated memory buffer, potentially overwriting adjacent memory and allowing for unauthorized code execution.

How can an attacker exploit the NETGEAR WNR2000v5 vulnerability?

An unauthenticated attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending specially crafted data to the `hidden_lang_avi` parameter within the `/apply.cgi?/lang_check.html` URL. This triggers a buffer overflow, enabling remote code execution on the router.

What is the relevance of CVE-2016-10174 to network security?

CVE-2016-10174 is relevant because it allows unauthenticated attackers to achieve remote code execution on NETGEAR routers. This could lead to a compromise of the device, enabling unauthorized access to network data or control over network traffic. The Halo Surface Signal indicates a 'Possible' score due to the nature of the vulnerable function, although external exposure is not standard.

What steps should be taken to respond to this vulnerability?

To address this vulnerability, organizations should identify all affected NETGEAR router assets, restrict network access to exposed router interfaces, and promptly apply any available vendor security updates. Monitoring for unusual network activity after applying updates is also recommended.

References

Written by Nicholas Merritt

External-surface CVE analysis and Halo Surface Signal prioritization for Halo Threat Intelligence.