External risk intelligence

DrayTek Router Remote Code Execution Vulnerability.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2020-8515

Certain DrayTek routers are affected by a vulnerability allowing unauthenticated remote code execution as root. This presents a significant business risk, as attackers can gain complete control of affected devices, potentially leading to data compromise and service disruption.

5Halo Surface Signal

OS Command Injection

Draytek Vigor2960 Firmware

1.3.11.3.31.4.2.11.4.4

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2020-8515

The vulnerability affects network edge devices (routers) specifically within their web management interface. These devices are designed to operate at the internet perimeter, and their management portals are frequently exposed to the public internet for remote administration purposes, making them highly likely to be reachable in standard deployments.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

The core issue resides within the web management interface of certain DrayTek routers. This interface contains a flaw that permits unauthorized remote code execution. The potential business impact includes unauthorized access to systems and data, as well as disruption of services.

  • Vulnerable router management interface
  • Allows unauthenticated code execution
  • Compromised systems and data

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

This vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected devices. An attacker can exploit this by sending specially crafted requests to the device's web management interface. Successful exploitation grants the attacker root-level privileges, enabling them to gain complete control over the system.

  • Network-accessible web interface.
  • Attacker sends malicious code.
  • Attacker achieves root control.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability presents a significant threat due to its ease of exploitation and the potential for severe damage. Attackers with basic technical skills can leverage this flaw to gain complete control over affected devices. The consequences could include unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of network operations, and the use of compromised devices for further malicious activities. Organizations utilizing the affected devices should consider this a high-priority issue.

  • Likely attacker skill level: Basic
  • Required access or conditions: Remote, unauthenticated
  • Business risk or urgency: High

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

The identified vulnerability presents a critical risk to organizations utilizing specific DrayTek Vigor routers. Unauthenticated remote code execution is possible, allowing attackers to gain root-level access to affected devices. This could lead to compromised device integrity, data exfiltration, and the use of these devices as pivot points for further network intrusion. Prompt action is required to mitigate these risks and protect organizational assets.

  • Identify exposed router assets.
  • Isolate affected devices if possible.
  • Apply vendor fixes and verify.
  • Monitor for related activity.

Frequently asked questions

What are DrayTek Vigor2960, Vigor3900, and Vigor300B devices and what is their function?

DrayTek Vigor2960, Vigor3900, and Vigor300B are models of DrayTek routers designed to manage network traffic for businesses. They serve to connect internal networks to the internet and provide essential security features, acting as a gateway and security enforcement point for an organization's network.

What type of weakness does CVE-2020-8515 describe for these DrayTek routers?

CVE-2020-8515 describes a command injection vulnerability (CWE-78). This weakness allows an attacker to insert shell metacharacters into requests targeting the router's web management interface, enabling the execution of unintended commands and leading to remote code execution.

How can an attacker exploit the vulnerability in DrayTek routers?

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending specially crafted requests to the router's `cgi-bin/mainfunction.cgi` URI. This method allows for remote code execution without the need for any authentication, granting the attacker root-level privileges on the device.

What is the relevance of CVE-2020-8515 to network security, considering Halo Surface Signal?

This vulnerability is highly relevant as it affects network edge devices (routers) via their web management interface, which is often exposed externally. Halo Surface Signal classifies this CVE as 'Very likely' exploitable because such interfaces are frequently accessible from the public internet, making them a prime target for attackers.

What are the recommended steps to respond to the DrayTek router vulnerability?

Organizations should identify any exposed DrayTek router assets that are vulnerable. If possible, isolate affected devices to prevent further compromise. The critical step is to apply the vendor-provided firmware updates for the Vigor3900, Vigor2960, and Vigor300B models to patch the vulnerability and verify successful remediation. Continuous monitoring for suspicious activity on network devices is also advised.

References

Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI)

Sources: malpedia