External risk intelligence

D-Link Router Vulnerability Allows Remote Code Execution.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2020-29557

A vulnerability exists in the web interface of D-Link DIR-825 R1 devices, allowing unauthorized remote code execution. This could affect system integrity and confidentiality, posing a business risk. Organizations should identify affected devices and reduce external access.

4Halo Surface Signal

Memory Corruption

Dlink Dir 825 R1 Firmware

3.0.1 and earlier

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2020-29557

The vulnerability exists in the web management interface of a D-Link router. Routers are designed for edge network connectivity, and their web management interfaces are frequently configured to be accessible from the internet, making this a commonly exposed service in typical home or small-office deployments.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

A vulnerability has been identified in the web interface of D-Link DIR-825 R1 devices. This flaw could permit unauthorized code execution without prior authentication. The potential impact of such an event could include the compromise of system integrity and confidentiality.

  • Vulnerable web interface
  • Buffer overflow flaw
  • Remote code execution impact

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

This vulnerability impacts organizations using specific D-Link router models. An attacker can exploit a flaw in the router's web interface to execute arbitrary code remotely. This could allow an attacker to gain control over the affected device, potentially disrupting network operations or gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information transmitted through the network.

  • Exposed web interface.
  • Unauthenticated attacker.
  • Remote code execution.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

The identified vulnerability in D-Link DIR-825 R1 devices presents a significant risk due to its potential for pre-authentication remote code execution. This means an attacker could potentially gain control of affected devices without needing any prior access or credentials. Such a compromise could lead to the disruption of network services, unauthorized access to sensitive data, or the use of the compromised device in further malicious activities. Given the nature of the vulnerability and its critical severity, organizations should prioritize addressing this issue.

  • Attackers with moderate skill could exploit this.
  • No access or conditions are required.
  • Business risk is critical and urgent.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

An unauthenticated remote code execution vulnerability has been identified in the web interface of D-Link DIR-825 R1 devices. This issue could allow an attacker to compromise affected systems. Organizations should take immediate steps to address this risk.

  • Identify D-Link DIR-825 R1 devices.
  • Reduce external access to affected devices.
  • Apply vendor updates and verify.

Frequently asked questions

What is the D-Link DIR-825 R1 firmware and its vulnerability context?

The D-Link DIR-825 R1 firmware is the software powering specific D-Link DIR-825 R1 routers. A buffer overflow vulnerability exists in its web interface, allowing pre-authentication remote code execution.

What type of weakness is CVE-2020-29557 and how does it function?

CVE-2020-29557 is a CWE-119, a buffer overflow vulnerability. This occurs when a program attempts to write more data into a buffer than it can hold, potentially overwriting adjacent memory and enabling arbitrary code execution by an attacker.

How can attackers exploit the D-Link DIR-825 R1 vulnerability without authentication?

An attacker can exploit this flaw by sending specially crafted data to the router's web interface. Because the vulnerability allows for pre-authentication remote code execution, no prior access or credentials are required, making the attack vector critical.

What is the relevance of CVE-2020-29557 for network security?

This vulnerability is highly relevant as it affects D-Link DIR-825 R1 devices, which are often at network perimeters. The potential for pre-authentication remote code execution means a compromised router could be used to launch further attacks or access sensitive network traffic.

What practical steps should be taken to address the D-Link DIR-825 R1 vulnerability?

Organizations should identify all D-Link DIR-825 R1 devices, restrict external access to their web interfaces where possible, and promptly apply firmware updates provided by the vendor. Verifying the successful application of updates is also crucial.

References