External risk intelligence

Zyxel Router Command Injection Vulnerability

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2017-6884

A command injection vulnerability in Zyxel EMG2926 routers allows unauthorized command execution. This poses a business risk by potentially compromising network security and data integrity.

5Halo Surface Signal

OS Command Injection

Zyxel Emg2926 Firmware

v1.00\(aaqt.4\)b8

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2017-6884

The vulnerability affects a home router's web-based management interface. As a consumer internet edge device, such portals are designed to be accessible via the network to the administrator. While management interfaces are ideally restricted to local networks, they are commonly exposed or reachable in internet-facing configurations for home gateway devices.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

A command injection vulnerability was discovered in the diagnostic tools of certain Zyxel home routers. This flaw allows an unauthorized user to execute arbitrary commands on the router. The potential impact includes unauthorized access to the device and the execution of malicious code.

  • Vulnerable diagnostic tools
  • Command injection flaw
  • Unauthorized command execution

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

This vulnerability allows an attacker to execute arbitrary commands on the affected router. The attack targets a specific diagnostic function, enabling unauthorized control. This can lead to significant business risk by compromising network security.

  • External network exposure required.
  • Attacker gains unauthorized access.
  • Triggering command injection.
  • Attacker achieves control.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability allows for unauthorized command execution on affected routers, potentially leading to compromised network security and data. Attackers can leverage this by exploiting specific functions within the router's diagnostic tools, such as the nslookup feature. The potential for attackers to execute arbitrary commands poses a significant risk to the integrity and confidentiality of the network.

  • Attacker skill level: Moderate.
  • Required access or conditions: Network access and low privilege.
  • Business risk or urgency: High.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability allows unauthorized command execution on affected Zyxel routers. Organizations should prioritize identifying all instances of the vulnerable Zyxel EMG2926, implement immediate protective measures, and then apply vendor-provided security updates. Following these steps will help mitigate the risk of compromise.

  • Find affected Zyxel EMG2926 devices.
  • Reduce exposure or isolate affected systems.
  • Apply vendor fix and validate.
  • Monitor for related activity.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Zyxel EMG2926 firmware version V1.00(AAQT.4)b8?

The Zyxel EMG2926 firmware version V1.00(AAQT.4)b8 is the software that runs on Zyxel EMG2926 home routers, enabling internet connectivity and network services for users.

What type of weakness does CVE-2017-6884 describe?

CVE-2017-6884 describes a command injection vulnerability, allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary commands on the affected device by tricking the software.

How can an attacker exploit the CVE-2017-6884 vulnerability on Zyxel EMG2926 routers?

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending specific commands through the router's diagnostic tools, such as the nslookup function, via parameters like 'ping_ip' to a specific URI.

What is the relevance of CVE-2017-6884 to home routers?

This vulnerability is relevant because it affects a home router's web-based management interface, a common entry point for attackers seeking to compromise network security. The Halo Surface Signal indicates it's very likely to be exploited due to this accessibility.

What steps should be taken to address the Zyxel EMG2926 command injection vulnerability?

Organizations should identify all affected Zyxel EMG2926 devices, implement immediate protective measures, apply vendor-provided security updates, and monitor for related malicious activity to mitigate the risk of compromise.

References