External risk intelligence

Netgear Switch Vulnerable to Unauthorized Access

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2020-26919

NETGEAR JGS516PE devices are affected by a vulnerability that allows unauthorized access to functions. This exposes organizations to risks including data compromise and operational disruption. Applying vendor-provided updates is recommended.

2Halo Surface Signal

Netgear Jgs516pe Firmware

before 2.6.0.43

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2020-26919

The device is a network switch, which is typically deployed in internal, local network environments. While it may be reachable over a local area network, public internet exposure is uncommon for this type of hardware and usually requires deliberate, non-standard configuration.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

Certain NETGEAR JGS516PE devices are impacted by a vulnerability stemming from inadequate access controls. This flaw allows unauthorized access to device functions, potentially enabling attackers to compromise system integrity and confidentiality. The business implications could include unauthorized data access, disruption of network services, and an increased risk to overall business operations due to compromised network infrastructure.

  • Vulnerable NETGEAR JGS516PE devices.
  • Missing function-level access controls.
  • Compromised system data and operations.

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

This vulnerability allows an attacker to bypass access controls on affected devices. An unauthenticated attacker could exploit this by sending a specially crafted request to the device. This could lead to unauthorized access and potential modification of device functions.

  • Network exposure required.
  • Attacker sends crafted request.
  • Unauthorized access or control.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability in NETGEAR JGS516PE devices allows unauthorized access and control due to a lack of access control. This could permit attackers to compromise sensitive data, disrupt operations, and potentially gain full control of affected systems. Organizations should prioritize addressing this vulnerability to mitigate significant business risk.

  • Attackers with low skill level.
  • No access or conditions required.
  • High business risk, treat as urgent.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability in NETGEAR JGS516PE devices could allow an unauthenticated attacker to gain unauthorized access and control over the device. Exploitation is possible due to a missing access control vulnerability at the function level, which could grant attackers elevated privileges. The potential impact includes compromise of device integrity and data confidentiality.

  • Identify NETGEAR JGS516PE devices.
  • Limit network access to these devices.
  • Apply vendor updates and monitor activity.

Frequently asked questions

What is the NETGEAR JGS516PE device and firmware versions affected by CVE-2020-26919?

The NETGEAR JGS516PE network switch, specifically firmware versions before 2.6.0.43, is affected by this vulnerability. This device is used to connect multiple devices within a local network, facilitating communication between them and managing network traffic.

What weakness class describes CVE-2020-26919 impacting NETGEAR JGS516PE devices?

CVE-2020-26919 is characterized by a 'lack of access control at the function level.' This means the device does not adequately verify permissions for certain actions, potentially allowing unauthorized users to access or control its functions.

How can an attacker trigger the CVE-2020-26919 vulnerability on NETGEAR JGS516PE devices?

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted request to the affected device. This bypasses access controls, enabling unauthorized access and potential modification of device functions without prior authentication.

How does Halo Surface Signal assess the risk of CVE-2020-26919 for NETGEAR JGS516PE?

Halo Surface Signal assesses the risk of CVE-2020-26919 as 'Unlikely' because the NETGEAR JGS516PE is typically a network switch deployed internally. While reachable on a local network, public internet exposure is uncommon and usually requires non-standard configurations.

What steps should be taken to address the CVE-2020-26919 vulnerability in NETGEAR JGS516PE devices?

Organizations should identify all NETGEAR JGS516PE devices, restrict network access to them, and apply vendor-provided updates promptly. Continuous monitoring of device activity is also recommended to detect any suspicious behavior.

References